Panic attacks: how to understand and manage them

The first time I had a panic attack I ended up in the emergency room. My fingers were numb, my heart was racing, I was short of breath, shaking, frozen all over, and convinced I was going to die. I was going crazy. I was so frightened. I had no idea what was happening to me.

I distinctly remember sitting in front of a doctor who was smiling in a horribly patronizing manner and telling me I was just imagining it. Yes, he was right, I was only imagining it all. But instead of showing off his (imagined) superiority, he could have explained to me what a panic attack is and how I could cope with it. He must have known it wasn’t going to be the only one I’d have. He could have helped me so much, but instead he chose to laugh at me, and discharge me unenlightened.

So I decided that if he wasn’t going to help me, I’d help myself. I’d find out what could cause the attacks, how to cope with them, how to make them last as little as possible, and if possible, how to get rid of them forever. These are the main things I’ve learned about panic attacks over the years:

Seek help from good experts. I had a bad experience with them, but that was years ago. Nowadays a lot more is known about panic attacks, and there’s plenty of help available.

Try to find out what’s causing your panic attacks. Is there a particular situation that triggers them? Do you have any phobias? Do other members of your immediate family have them? The better you understand your own panic attacks, the faster you’ll be able to find a solution.

Don’t ignore your panic attacks. It will only make them worse next time they start. Accept them and learn to regain your calmness through breathing and relaxation techniques.

You’re not a freak. A large percentage of people have a panic attack at some point in their lives, but few of us talk about it.

Let those around you know about your panic attacks. Describe to them what you experience and show them how they can help you.