Overcoming a Panic Attack
Panic attacks are strong bursts of dread, panic, or worry that occur suddenly. They are debilitating, with both physical and emotional manifestations. Many people who suffer from panic attacks have trouble breathing, sweat heavily, shiver, and feel their hearts pound. During a panic attack, some people may suffer chest pain and a sense of disconnection from reality or themselves, leading them to believe they are experiencing a heart attack. Others have described themselves as suffering a stroke. Panic episodes can be scary and may hit you quickly. Here are 11 tactics you can take to try to halt a panic attack when you’re suffering one or when you feel one coming on: Deep breathing should be used. While hyperventilation is a sign of panic attacks that can heighten terror, deep breathing can help to alleviate panic symptoms during an attack. You're less likely to experience hyperventilation, which can exacerbate other symptoms — and the panic attack itself — if you can control your b...