How can others act when I am having a panic attack?

They can support me and help calm me down. They can also remember that it helps me to get into fresh air or a cold shower.

I find that being distracted is the best form of help when having a panic attack. So I guess keeping the conversation going and not going silent, maybe offering water and if amongst a group taking me away from everyone for a while.

For me, I find it is best that others just hold me, for example hugging, but everyone is different. You need to find a reaction that works for you, and that might be hugging, or holding your hands, or telling you to breathe etc. Some people react differently to different forms of help, and you need to find out what works for you.

This is a great and educative guide for helping someone who is having a panic attack, with comprehensive Dos and Donts: http://www.webmd.com/a-to-z-guides/helping-someone-during-a-panic-attack-topic-overview

Personally, I've found that the best things my friends can do for me during is panic attacks is to act normally and not change what they're doing around me, except perhaps turning down any background noise or getting me a glass of water. Your partner, family or close friends might be able to verbally reassure you about whichever issue you're panicking about, hold your hand or touch you, which will help keep your grounded and feel safer.

if they understand what is happening the best thing for them to do , is be extra calm and try to calm you down

Tell them to sit calmly with you and quietly assure you that it will soon pass. If they are unable or unwilling to remain calm, tell them beforehand that they need to leave when it begins to happen. The secret is to educate those who may be around you when the attacks occur so they will understand what you need most during those times.

sometimes it is just nice to have someone there for reassurance. when i have a pain attack i usually call my mom and she tells me to calm down and that i am okay and to drink some water.

Calming you gently, taking you from the area it started, sit with you until you're calm, don't act rude or annoyed, among others.

It is best if others just leave you too your problems. Panic is normal but when it becomes a problem in our lives its because we are worrying too much. Getting people to help you is feeding these thoughts that something is wrong when all you need to do is think positive and calm down.