Panic attacks can be avoided and are curable.
First you need to recognize the symptoms. Some of the symptoms may include the following:
- Chest and stomach pain or discomfort
- Hyperventilation
- Feeling of being smothered or choking
- Dizziness and nausea
- Sweating
- Depersonalisation
Symptoms are frightening; however, they are not harmful. The only reason the symptoms become present is because for some reason the mind is imagining some kind of danger. Knowing and realizing that panic attacks cannot harm you will help you to better utilize the techniques that it takes to help stop and eliminate them.
Knowing what is actually causing and or triggering these attacks is the first step in combating them. Most symptoms are present due to stress or some type of event in your life. Some of the causes can be:
- Traumatic events in the past
- Genetic or hereditary – having a family history of anxiety disorders
- Medical – mostly with heart problems
- Substance abuse and withdrawal
- Phobias – extreme fear of certain events or objects
Once you learn what triggers your panic attacks you are a big step closer to stopping them altogether. There are a range of techniques out there that you can try, but some of the most effective methods include:
– Learning relaxation techniques will help you to remain in control during the panic attack
– Seeking professional help such as counselling or therapy will give you the tools and support you need to stop the attacks. One of the most successful therapies for panic or anxiety attacks is Cognitive Behavioural Therapy. In this type of therapy the therapist specifically helps you to identify the triggers for the attack and then helps you to work on what you will need to do to deal with the triggers so the attacks will stop.
– In some extreme cases, medication may be used. However, it should only be used under the care of a physician since the medication may have side effects.
Keeping a positive approach towards dealing with the attacks will help you to control them and possibly eliminate them all together. One of the keys to breaking the fear of a panic attack is to stop thinking about them. Accept the fact that your life really isn’t in any danger. Once you have accepted that they are not harmful then you can learn how to control your thoughts as well as the attack itself.
About Author
Counselling Sutherland is a leading provider of Sutherland Shire psychologist and relationship counselling services in South Sydney. Robert Davies is the main contributor to the counsellingsutherland website, offering readers insights into issues of common concern to clients including depression, anxiety, grief, stress and relationships.
