If you are an anxiety sufferer, then you are likely no stranger to a panic attack. They happen often with people who have anxiety, but more often if you suffer from panic attack disorder. Functional Medicine Los Angeles knows it can be really scary when you have one, but there are ways to lessen it or even stop it right in its tracks.
As a provider of functional medicine Studio City, we have listed a few helpful ways to stop a panic attack:
> Understanding Panic Attacks
A panic attack is a sudden, intense episode of fear or anxiety that can cause physical symptoms like a racing heart, shortness of breath, or dizziness. They can be scary, but there are techniques you can use to help manage them when they occur.
> Try Counting Backwards From 100
This easy technique is actually very useful to stop a panic attack before it begins. It doesn’t help as much when the attack has already started, but when you get those early warning signs, that is when you want to do it.
What you want to do is start from 100 and count backward. 100, 99, 98, 97, etc until you reach 1. If you still don’t feel relaxed enough, go the other direction to count 100. Keep going back and forth until you realize your focus has shifted and your body has relaxed. You can also reach out to functional medicine Burbank.
> Grounding Techniques to Connect to the Present
Grounding techniques can also be very useful during a panic attack. These are strategies that help you connect with the present moment. This could involve focusing on something in your environment, like the feel of a chair beneath you, or counting items of a specific color in the room.
> Challenge Your Thoughts
Panic attacks often involve a spiral of fearful thoughts. Challenging these thoughts can help to break the cycle. Ask yourself whether your fears are likely to come true or whether there’s another, less alarming way to look at the situation.
> Find a Safe, Comfortable Space
If possible, find a safe and comfortable space where you can wait out the panic attack. This could be a quiet room or even just a seat away from a crowded area.
> Seek Professional Help
While these strategies can be helpful, if you’re experiencing frequent panic attacks, it’s important to seek professional help. A therapist or counselor can provide you with more strategies to manage panic attacks and can also help to address any underlying issues that may be contributing to them. Our functional medicine Los Angeles can support you too.
Experiencing a panic attack can be incredibly scary, but it’s important to remember that they are not dangerous, and they will pass. By practicing these techniques and seeking professional help if needed, you can gain control over your panic attacks and reduce their impact on your life.
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