There are several ways for a person to begin managing panic attacks, including breathing exercises, certain medications and therapy. It may also be helpful for a person experiencing a panic attack to remind himself that the panic attack will not last long, that the fears triggering the attack will not come true, and that he is not going crazy. Family members can assist in managing panic attacks by talking to the sufferer while he is going through it and by attending his therapy sessions to help themselves better understand the problem. Learning more about these bouts of anxiety and why they happen can also help a person with managing panic attacks.
Panic attacks are sudden, debilitating bouts of intense fear. Many doctors believe these attacks are reactions to a part of the brain that controls a person's response to threats. This area of the brain is triggered, sometimes for no reason, and the person becomes very anxious. This anxiety can continue long after the panic attack is over because the person often begins to fear that another panic attack will occur.
When a person has a panic attack, he may experience sudden fear that he is going to die, dizziness, chest pain, nausea, black outs, rapid heart beat and difficulty breathing, along with other symptoms. These symptoms can be extremely scary for the person experiencing them. Learning how to start managing panic attacks can help get rid of some of the symptoms or shorten their duration and severity.
Breathing exercises can be helpful in managing panic attacks. It can be difficult for a person to remember to breathe while he is experiencing such anxiety and fear, and simply reminding himself to breathe in and out can help relieve an attack. Medication also can be helpful. Many doctors will prescribe anti-anxiety medications, anti-depressant medications, or a combination of the two to help a patient deal with his anxiety, possible depression, and the panic attacks that can occur with these disorders.
Therapist can assist a person in discussing and overcoming any fears he has that may be causing the panic attacks. Family members are often invited to take part in the therapy so they can learn what their loved one is going through and find out ways to help him. Members of the family can help manage panic attacks and are less likely to become frustrated with the attacks if they are a part of the patient's therapy.