How to Navigate Your Panic Attacks During These Turbulent Times

If you suffer from panic attacks or are prone to them, you might find that you are experiencing them more than usual. The uncertainty in these challenging times as we face a global pandemic — it’s the perfect storm for intense fear and a sense of dread that cripples those who suffer from panic attacks. It triggers physical symptoms like a pounding heart, sweating, shortness of breath, nausea, chest pain, or trembling. It can last 5 to 20 minutes but can feel like forever. Despite the scary situation you find yourself in, the “silver lining” is that once you learn to recognize when your attacks are coming on, you can find ways to naturally stop them, and get the relief that you so desperately need. Don’t let fear control you. It’s understandable that you would want to avoid a panic attack at all costs. Who wouldn’t? But it’s equally important not to let fear control your life. For example, don’t avoid places where you’ve had panic attacks in the past. If you have one, stay where you are, assuming it’s a safe and neutral spot. When the attack is over, you will realize that nothing terrible happened. Identify your feelings. When you feel a panic attack coming on, remind yourself that what you are feeling are feelings of anxiety, and not real physical danger. You can even try directly addressing the fear. Practice a go-to response like, “I am not afraid” or “This pandemic will soon pass.” Don’t Distract As tempting as it may be to try to ...
Source: World of Psychology - Category: Psychiatry & Psychology Authors: Tags: Anxiety and Panic Stress Anxiety Attack coronavirus COVID-19 Panic Attack stress reduction Source Type: blogs