A panic attack may not be as severe as a heart attack or an asthma attack, but the condition still deserves our full attention. A lot of people might think that a panic attack is just something one can easily brush off. Unfortunately, the condition is a lot more complex than what many perceive it to be. According to neuroengineering expert Curtis Cripe, a person suffering from a panic attack may show signs of excessive sweating, palpitations, dizziness, nausea, anxiety, shortness of breath, chest pains, or even a choking sensation. Here is what you need to do when someone is suffering from a panic attack.
Image source: health.clevelandclinic.org
First and foremost, do not panic yourself. Panicking could make their panic attack worse. Speak to them in short, understandable phrases and try to calm them down. Ask if they are taking medication and if they have one on their person. If they are having problems with breathing, help them regain their regular rhythm by breathing with them and counting 1 to 10 slowly.
If you are not sure if they are having a panic attack, ask them. If they confirm your suspicion, try to move them slowly to a safe space, like an area away from crowds. Panic attacks may also be caused by an external stimuli like stress. If this occurs during a tense situation, do everything to forego all your current activities and focus on the person.
Image source: wikipedia.org
Curtis Cripe also reminds people to be mindful of their words when talking to someone suffering from a panic attack. If possible, use positive messaging such as “we can get through this,” “tell me what I need to do,” and “it’s going to be fine.”
Dr. Curtis Cripeheads research and development at the NTL Group. He has published two peer-reviewed papers and written two book chapters on neurotherapy and neuroengineering. For more reads on neurological disorders, visit this website.
Curtis Cripe's Wordpress Blog 