How can others help me when Im having a panic attack?
PoliteOcean
on
Aug 4, 2015
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You can talk with those around you and let them know how you are feeling. You can also let them know if you are a sufferer of panic attacks. While they may not know what exactly to do for you, if they know that you go through these emotions, they may be better prepared when the time comes to help you in the event if a situation should arise. You could help those closet to you know what it is that might calm or relax you if you already have coping skills in place. Also, please always seek further advice from a trained medical healthcare provider. Or, with a counselor or therapist who can further assist you and those around you with coping skills.
KintsugiLady
on
Sep 21, 2015
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I think for each person the answer to this will be different but, for what it's worth, here's what I've seen that worked for some people (pick and choose what sounds right for you):
- Ask them to give you some space. Too many people, too close, can make you feel overwhelmed.
- Ask someone that makes you feel safe to give you a big hug. Sometimes the feeling that there's someone caring for you, that's protecting you and holding you until you feel better, can help a lot.
- Ask them to offer you a sip of water. Some studies say that when we're in panic mode and stop to drink some water, it tricks our brains into thinking that the danger isn't so big ("if we have time to stop and drink when we are not dying of thirst, then it can't be that bad!")
- Ask them to help you control your breathing. Maybe they can count the seconds between inhale and exhale, remind you to not breathe rapidly...
I wish you the best of luck!
Anonymous
on
Mar 26, 2015
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By having the knowledge of what a panic attack is and being supportive when you are experiencing on, encouraging you to take controlled breaths, helping you to sit up straight and calm down. It may not sound like a lot but it is enough to help you.
JimSwift
on
Apr 16, 2015
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I think the best thing other people can do is be knowledgeable about them so that they can help talk you through it.
Anonymous
on
May 28, 2015
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When you are having a panic attack others can help you by assisting you in any way possible, be it getting you a glass of water or maybe helping you to a clean, quiet space. The most important thing for someone to do is to listen. Listen and understand that the person having the attack feels unsafe and needs you to help them. If someone is having an attack ask them if they need anything, help them breath steadily, and just let them know you're there with them.
Anonymous
on
Jun 30, 2015
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Others, especially people that have had panic attacks before, can sometimes lend their experience to your aid. It's sometimes helpful to hear from people that have gone through the same suffering before, since it provides perspective; it lets us know that we can beat our anxiety, and reminds us to have hope.
JoeyOpenEarsOpenHeart
on
Aug 4, 2015
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They can support you and help you calm down. To remind you to take slow, deep breaths. Reassure you that it will pass soon or even take you to find health care.
Anonymous
on
Sep 22, 2015
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We have a self help guide for both anxiety and panic attacks, and there are various listeners for you to connect to!
Anonymous
on
Sep 29, 2015
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If your somebody that doesn't like to be around people, just let them know that you just need some space and go somewhere where you feel comfortable. If you do like people around you, just explain to them to give you reassurance, just to be there to hold your hand and help you through it with breathing techniques.
tranquilSugar65
on
Nov 10, 2015
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Be there really make me feel as if they are there for me but if they really are that is and that there is love there
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