Panic attacks
What is a panic attack? The NHS describe a panic attack as; ‘an anxiety disorder where you regularly have sudden attacks of panic or fear.’
Everyone experiences feelings of anxiety and panic at certain times. It’s a natural response to stressful or dangerous situations.
During a panic attack you get a rush of intense mental and physical symptoms. It can come on very quickly and for no apparent reason. A panic attack can be very frightening and distressing but they do end.
Most panic attacks last between 5 and 10 minutes and can be exhausting, however it is important to remember that they do end and afterwards you need to rest and drink some water.
What are they symptoms?
There are many symptoms of a panic attack and these include but are not exclusive:-
- A racing heartbeat.
- Feeling faint.
- Sweating.
- Nausea.
- Chest pain.
- Shortness of breath.
- Trembling.
- Hot flushes.
- Chills.
- Shaky limbs.
- A choking sensation.
- Dizziness.
- Numbness or pins and needles.
- Dry mouth.
- Ringing in your ears.
- Churning stomach.
- Feeling of disconnect from your body.
- Tingling in your fingers.
Breathing exercises for panic attacks
It is important during a panic attack to regulate your breathing so here are some tips on how to do that.
- Breath in slowly, deeply, and as gently as you can through your nose and then out through your mouth.
- Count steadily from one to five on each in and each out breath.
- Close your eyes and focus on breathing.
Weekly Wellbeing Tip
Go outside alone and walk barefoot on the ground.
