Recognizing Panic Attacks and How to Defuse Them

Panic attacks are a far more common occurrence in our society than most people think. Part of the problem is that many of us fail to realize a panic attack for what it is, and attempt to approach the situation as if there were some physical ailment. Here are few signs to help you recognize the onset of a panic attack, plus a few ideas on how to minimize the impact on your life.

Panic attacks may manifest themselves in a number of ways. Most commonly, the individual will experience a sudden sense of dread that there is something physically wrong. At this sense of dread takes hold, the heart may begin to pound and the individual may begin to feel dizzy or about to pass out. The fear of losing control is a big part of a panic attack for many people.

There are any number of reasons why a person may begin to experience panic attacks. After going through a critical life threatening experience, a person may find themselves entering into a panic attack when they are around something that triggers a memory of the previous trauma. For others, panic attacks may begin to manifest themselves after a prolonged period of intense stress. In other persons, there is no immediately identifiable reason for the attacks.

One thing is sure about panic attacks. When they happen, the attacks are very real to the person going through the experience. Telling someone that the problem is all in his or her heads is vastly oversimplifying the situation. The good news is that panic attacks are highly treatable. In some cases, psychotherapy will quickly identify the origin of the problem and allow the patient to deal with and eventually diffuse the reasons for the attack. In some cases, medication that is proscribed by a professional may be helpful in regulating the situation while it is brought under control.

For a person who is experiencing a panic attack, it is important to remind oneself that what is happening is very real, but that it will pass. Panic attacks tend to come on strong, peak, and then fade after around ten minutes. While one may feel some aftereffects for a longer period, the sense of hopelessness begins to fade. One lingering anxiety is usually wondering when the next attack is going to occur.

If you are experiencing panic attacks, consult your physician immediately. Medical help is readily available. With the proper treatment, you can free yourself from the anxiety of panic attacks, and reclaim your life.