Last Updated On: septiembre 9, 2024
A panic attack happens when your body experiences a sudden intense fear where you feel like you are losing control. It triggers severe physical reactions such as a racing heart or chest pains when there is no real danger.
As a bystander or a first aider, you can save someone having a panic attack. If you wish to be the change, step forward and take a CPR training course from American CPR Care Association. Our courses are nationally accredited, and they adhere to the 2020 ECC Guidelines as well as the National Emergency Response Organization Standards.
Panic attacks set off your nervous system which leads to the «fight or flight» response that usually occurs when you face a dangerous situation.
A panic attack can be a surprise as it can happen suddenly with no prior warning. The symptoms of a panic attack occur eventually and can heighten after about ten minutes. Below are the symptoms you should look out for:
If you witness someone having a panic attack, you will also know that they can become anxious and have foggy thoughts. Here’s a list of a few things you can do to help them:
A few examples of things you can say to a person dealing with panic attacks are:
While panic attacks are scary, they are not dangerous. They may be unpredictable, therefore, preventing them can be a challenge. Here are a few steps you have to take to maintain your well-being and reduce the risk of panic attacks.
Dealing with panic attacks is crucial. It is essential to ask for help when you think you need it. Consult a doctor if you experience panic attacks often. Get treatment to avoid more episodes of panic attacks in the future.
Have you heard of the 3-3-3 rule for panic attacks? The rule states that if you have a panic attack, all you need to do is look around you, name three things you see, and three sounds you hear and move three parts of your body. You can move your arm, your ankle, or your fingers.
While there is no evidence of the effectiveness of this 3-3-3 rule, many people find this technique helpful in handling panic attacks. Sometimes, the trick is to slow down your brain from speeding at 100 miles per hour and bring you to the present.
Dealing with panic attacks can be terrifying as they are not always easy to identify. People suffering from panic attacks are more often fearful of having a panic attack in public.
Most times, a person may feel they are experiencing a heart attack due to the significant distress caused. It can take time to differentiate between a panic attack or a heart attack.
If you are in doubt, call 9-1-1 immediately without further delay.
If you find yourself or a person breathing rapidly, here’s what you need to do:
2. Slowly and gently breathe out through the mouth.
3. Close your eyes and focus on your breathing exercises.
4. Count steadily from one to five while taking each breath in and each breath out.
It is essential to learn how to provide life-saving assistance in an emergency. Sign up for the American CPR Care Association’s online CPR and First Aid certification course today to learn more about CPR and how to administer it properly. If you have any doubts, our team is happy to help you.