How do you help someone with a panic attack?

Panic Attacks: Do's and Don'ts in helping others

When someone has a panic attack, it can be a frightening experience for both the person and bystanders. It is essential to remain calm and observe some important do's and don'ts in order to control the situation together.

Identifying symptoms

A panic attack suddenly occurs and is accompanied by intense anxiety that reaches its peak within minutes. Some common symptoms are palpitations, nausea, trembling, sweating, respiratory distress, chest pain, dizziness and stomach discomfort. People who experience a panic seizure may think they are having a heart attack, going mad or even dying. It is important to recognise the symptoms and know how to act.

Dos helping

1. Stay calm: It's crucial to stay calm for yourself, and by staying calm, you won't help the situation worsen.
2. Show understanding: Show understanding of the person's fear even if it seems exaggerated. Ask how you can help and encourage the person to think about previous attacks and how they recovered from them.
3. Create space: Make sure the person has enough space. Imagine going to a quiet place and sitting in a comfortable chair. Encourage slower and deeper breathing.
4. Offer distraction: Talk to a friendly and positive tone to distract the person from symptoms. Simple math exercises can help shift focus.

Don'ts helping

1. Do not use a trivializing language: Avoid phrases like "keep calm" or "try to relax." Do not baffle the fear, because it is very real for the person.
2. Don't ask multiple questions: Do not ask too many questions and keep it simple with short questions. Please do not confirm negative comments.
3. Don't leave the person alone: Stay with the person until he or she is on top of it. If the person insists on being alone, keep an eye on him from afar until the attack is over.

After the panic attack

1. Talk about it. After the panic attack, talk about what happened and how new panic attacks can be prevented. Encourage not to muffle away the problem.
2. Support and professional assistance: Support the person to confront the problem and consider seeking professional help to deal with it.

By following these guidelines, you can help to control a panic attack together and support the person in dealing with anxiety and stress.