How do I fix a panic attack?

Question

I have been shaky and panicky all day. I am on meds for my anxiety but how do I calm myself?

Answer 1

I had panic attacks for years before I was diagnosed. I went to a therapist for some counseling and managed to beat it without drugs.

We discussed the elements of my life that were contributing to the attacks, and then worked on relaxation techniques.

One of the best ones involved slowly counting while breathing.

1. Inhale, making it last to the count of 4
2. Hold it for 4
3. Exhale, making it last to the count of 4
4. Wait to the count of four before inhaling.

If you're really anxious it can be difficult, so just use a three count at first. The idea behind this is that part of the bogus panic response is to start breathing faster in preparation for danger.

When you control this response it makes it difficult for the body to maintain the false state of panic.

I haven't had a real panic attack for over ten years now. When I've had moments of anxiety (like taking a plane flight) this breathing technique has been VERY effective.

If you're on medication and still having attacks check with your doc. Make sure they have the dosage right. If you have not explored therapy, check it out. Perhaps like me you will not require medication.

Answer 2

I have had and been under treatment for panic and anxiety disorder for several years, I also have seizures, anxiety and stress can trigger the seizures. I am on "clonazepam" for the anxiety and panic attacks.
When I get that panic feeling, it helps me to just be alone for a while where I'm comfortable and just sort of wind down. Sometimes the wind down period can take quite a long time.
Shutting my eyes and trying to concentrate on one relaxing image, such as a moonlit night, seems to help also.
Sorry to say I have not found a quick fix for this condition, I really don't think there is one. only a couple of things that help a little.
I know what you are going through all to well, I wish you the best.

Answer 3

Different methods will work for different people. I get panic attacks that have all the symptoms of a heart attack, including numb arms and a clinched chest.
I have learned that lying down and taking deep, controlled breaths works better than anything else. If I am hyperventilating, I breathe into a bag until I can control the breathing. I force myself to inhale at least 10 seconds long and fill them as much as I can. The I let it out slowly and fully. Sometimes, I get dizzy doing this because my body is fighting to breathe faster, which is why I lie down.
I hope you feel better.

Answer 4

I usually put my head down between my knees, to ease the dizziness, close my eyes, breathe really slowly and try to distract myself from what is upsetting me. Other times it really helps to have someone there, Ill run into the arms of my boyfriend for a snuggle, and try to calm myself by thinking how ok everything is. Anxiety is horrible, but can be managed with time. Try and include as much de-stressing stuff in your life as you can, do yoga, have lavender candles lit in your house, get regular massages, enjoy candle lit bathes. And generally take care of yourself, eat well, sleep well etc. Sometimes prevention or reduction of the attacks helps more, than trying to manage them once they happen.

Answer 5

fix panic attack

Answer 6

Try and relax, lay down in a quiet room and breathe in and out till you feel the stress leave your body! The meds you are on may not be right for you. My mother in law takes xanax for stress attacks!

Answer 7

Depends, it's different for different people.

Panic attacks are something you have for life, but they can be managable.

Exercise is extremely good for relieving anxiety and tension though, also it's good for you. Go for a run perhaps? Maybe some sit ups if you don't like running outside in public (I know I don't).

Answer 8

Take a deep breath, then let it out.
Do it a couple of times until you feel fine again.

Answer 9

Try to calm down, if your of age, go and have a drink to calm yourself. Do things that make your feel calm and happy.

Answer 10

Pray to Jesus for a comfort and pieace