Tips to Help Someone Having a Panic Attack

Tips

 * If they have a phobia and it triggered the attack, take them away from the trigger.
 * Take them outside if their panic attack started in a crowded or loud place. They need to relax and get out in the open.
 * If they have a pet nearby research has shown that petting a dog lowers blood pressure.
 * If someone close to you has a panic disorder and the panic attacks are frequent, it may strain your relationship. How you deal with the effects of panic disorder on your relationship is beyond the scope of this article, but it should be addressed with professional help.
 * Less frequent symptoms include:
 * Disturbing or negative thoughts
 * Racing thoughts
 * Feeling of unreality
 * Feeling of impending doom
 * Feeling of impending death
 * Blotchiness
 * If the person wants to be alone then give them space.
 * Ask them to visualize something beautiful like the ocean or a green meadow to calm their mind.
 * If a paper bag is not available, try having the person use their hands cupped together. Breathe into the small hole between the thumbs.
 * Don't hesitate to call the emergency services for help, this is their job!
 * Suggest focusing the brain on colors, patterns and counting. The brain cannot focus on that as well as the attack. Also, if this is a repeat episode, assure the person they will be okay. Have them repeat, "I am going to be okay."
 * Encourage them to use the restroom. Relieving oneself helps toxins pass out of the body and will also help them to concentrate on something else.
 * Getting into child's pose (the yoga position) helps calm down.