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How do paper bags help with panic attacks?

106 Answers
Last Updated: 03/23/2024 at 7:15pm
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Top Rated Answers
Crest
January 14th, 2016 3:28am
Depends on you, really. They might not even remotely be useful, or you might be able to use them to throw up into if you feel utterly horrible.
xxAureliaxx
January 17th, 2016 3:06am
No, I don't think so, at least it doesn't work for me. I usually just literally plug my earphones in and listen to music, because music really helps me calm down. Using paper bags might help though, it's just not the way for me. :)
TheGreyFixer
January 22nd, 2016 9:48pm
Breathing into a paper bag will reduce the amount of oxygen you're absorbing. This can be useful in panic attacks where hyperventilation is occurring: hyperventilation can cause an oxygen head rush which can cause the attack to spiral out of control. By using the paper bag to breathe into, you restrict that effect and become able to breathe more normally, producing a calming effect.
Anonymous
January 28th, 2016 2:05am
to be honest, i think paper bags are an ineffective way to manage panic attacks. i guess it does show you how you are breathing, but i think they arent much use at all.
peacefulPond74
February 2nd, 2016 5:24pm
The idea is to control your breathing. The paper bag makes it easier to take deep breaths in and out as needed. (side note: Makes the air warmer as well so its easier to go in and out) :)
Anonymous
February 6th, 2016 2:24am
Breathing through your nose and blowing the air into a paper bag to inflate it helps the person focus on their breathing, taking the time to breathe deeper and slower, helping them to relax.
Alexanderishere
February 7th, 2016 6:50pm
Paper bags help when you are hyperventilating, not everyone hyperventilates however some people hold their breaths. What that paler bag does is it gives carbon bag into your cycle so you slow your breathing it's important to remember take a limited amount of breaths, cause use it too much can cause you to pass out. For example I use mine for 5 times and tale a 3 time break
BenS
February 10th, 2016 10:16am
They help to regulate your breathing, as you are limited to a certain amount of oxygen, stopping you from hyperventilation.
Appleyogi
February 10th, 2016 2:43pm
They help by replacing excess oxygen in your body with carbon dioxide and bring your body back into balance, helping to reduce the symptoms of panic.
FrenchToast
February 29th, 2016 4:37pm
It helps to control hyperventilation which is a contingency during panic attacks. If you take a small paper bag, and take 6 to 12 easy, natural breaths, with the bag held over your mouth and nose, it can slow down your heart pace and ease the anxiety triggers. :)
Keepinsight
March 14th, 2016 6:40pm
you can regulate your breathing using one. you take deep breaths and visualize how much you're taking in and out to help you slow down your breathing and get more air in.
WoundedHelper
March 16th, 2016 3:22am
When controlling your breathing with a paper bag you can see how fast your breathing and how much air you take in.
Anonymous
March 17th, 2016 1:40am
Well, you will be able to breathe in more calmly as you will be able to hear your breathing. And when you concentrate on your breathing, your mind gets occupied with the breathing more than the problem that causes the pain attack.
ItsKayja
March 19th, 2016 9:09am
When people get anxiety attacks they tend to 'over-breathe'. This removes a lot of the carbon dioxide in the body, so the level of carbon dioxide in the blood is lower and that makes them feel worse! Breathing into a paper bag for half a dozen or so breaths builds up the carbon dioxide in your body again, so you should immediately start feeling better!
Anonymous
March 23rd, 2016 7:58pm
It helps to make sure you have a steady breathing pattern and that you don't breathe too fast which causes hyperventilating
Anonymous
March 24th, 2016 2:50pm
They can help guide you to breathe in and out fully,instead of taking short panicky breaths. Your brain needs oxygen to function, so deep breathing can be really helpful.