How to Cope with Panic Attacks: You Are Not Alone
Despite how isolated we can feel at different points throughout our lives, it is helpful to remember that we are not the only people who may be feeling lost or alone. Panic attacks can be brought on for a number of reasons, but according to the Cleveland Clinic, about 11% of the American population experience a panic attack in a given year. That means millions of people know what it feels like to feel out of control.
What Is a Panic Attack?
Panic attacks can look different for different people, but generally, there are intense physical reactions that occur. Some people experience symptoms reminiscent of a heart attack, others begin sweating, some others feel rapid heart beats. No matter how you experience it, it can come on from seemingly normal events taking place.
Causes for Panic Attacks
There is no real way of pinpointing what causes panic attacks because of the way it differs for every individual. Nonetheless, no one is necessarily safe from experiencing a panic attack. They can happen to anyone, but the most common causes are things like stress, being reminded of trauma, or even things like public speaking. We all have different fears and anxieties, and those can manifest themselves in numerous ways.
How to Cope
Whether you have experienced a panic attack in the past or not, it is important to feel prepared and equipped with the necessary tools that can help you get through it. Panic attacks will run their course, but with the knowledge of how to handle it, you might find it easier to navigate and come out of.
- Recognition - If you can take a moment to be present, you can then realize what is happening within your own body. No matter how out of control or foreign you may feel within yourself, it is possible to reconnect and understand that what you are feeling is panic.
- Breathing - Your breath is a powerful tool in every part of your life, panic attack or not. In the event that you have a panic attack, focusing on your breathing can help bring you back to the present moment. Our breath is constant and recognizable. If you can gain control of your breath and focus on that, you can begin to feel your presence and power in your body once again.
- Think Happy Thoughts - As cheesy as it sounds, finding something happy that you can focus on will help you get through the panic. If you can search your mind for a happy memory or something that reminds you of a period of peace in your life, it can help you find your way out of the panicky feelings.
Therapy
Seeking help for the times when you feel overwhelmed is another great tool to obtain. All of us need help in life, with or without panic attacks. Finding yourself a good therapist can help you navigate the stresses of life and maybe even give you some peace from panic attacks. At Sage Family Counseling, we have an expert team of licensed therapists who are here to help you through every stage of life. To learn more about what Sage Family Counseling can do for you and the people you love, check out our website.
