How to stop a major panic attack

Stopping a major panic attack in its tracks can take some time to learn. Major panic attacks can trick you into thinking everything is fine and before you know you are in full swing of one. They can creep up in you without realizing it.

The trick to stop a maor panic attack is to look for the signs and the triggers that may spark a panic attack in the first place.

For example, some people are KNOW their triggers for an attack will take place when they board a plane, or when they eat in a public restraunt, or any other number of things.

If you know your triggers be aware of your surroundings and your current situation. This at least will help you identify when, potentially a major panic attack could occour.

Secondly, try to avoid your triggers in the first place, particulary if they are severe. It is possible to overcome panic attacks, but for some who are subjected to very severe forms of anxiety, avoidence, at least for now is a smart albeit, temporary tactic to use.

If you find yourself in the middle of a major panic attack there are some techniques you can use to get through it. One a panic attack starts you can do the following things to help minimize the suffering and to overcome it.

When you have a panic attack, adrenaline is being released into the bloodstream. This is what cause the more physical symptoms, such as a faster heart beat, sweaty hands and other physiological signs.

A good technique to use is to slow down your breathing. Take deep slow controlled breaths. This will lower your heart rate and decrease anxiety symptoms.
Secondly use visualization techniques to counter your worrying thoughts. For example when you panic you may have a thought such as " I am going to die".. which naturally is a very negative and terrifying thought. Control this by visualizing a big red stop sign (or any other visual that is equally effective for you) and counter the negative thought with a direct opposite, such as "I am not going to die, I am having a panic attack. I know this will pass. I will control my breathing"

These simple methods are highly effective, the more you believe counter thoughts the more quickly an attack will pass.

There are some highly effective websites on the internet that can teach you more methods on how to stop a major panic attack. Check out this link for further techniques on what you can do to control your anxiety and panic attacks. You will be gald you did :)