A panic attack is an overwhelming feeling of fear or anxiety that can happen to anyone, anywhere, and at any time. It can be a scary experience and take a toll on someone’s mental health, especially when it happens in public places. As a bystander, you may feel helpless if you do not have the knowledge on first aid for panic attacks or disorders. But there are steps you can take to help panic attack patients tackle unexpected attacks or bursts on time.

But to offer effective help, you yourself must learn the techniques and skills necessary to act in such situations. Learning how to help someone during a panic attack is a valuable skill that can make a huge difference in someone’s life. That’s why it’s important to learn from a certified provider like the American CPR Care Association. By enrolling in the American CPR Care Association’s CPR and basic first aid courses, you learn the necessary skills to assist someone in need during an emergency.

This article will take you through the steps you can take as a bystander to help someone having a panic attack in public places.

When does someone have a panic attack?

A panic attack can happen to anyone, even those who have never experienced anxiety before. It can be triggered by various factors, such as stress, trauma, or even genetics. Symptoms of a panic attack can include a racing heart, sweating, trembling, chest pain, shortness of breath, or feeling like one is going to die.

What can you do to help someone having a panic attack?

If you notice someone having a panic attack, here are some first aid for panic attack steps you can take to help them:

• Stay Calm: It is essential to remain calm. When you remain calm, it helps the person having a panic attack feel more at ease.
• Speak Softly: Speak softly and in a reassuring tone to the person. Let them know you are there to help them and that everything is going to be okay.
• Ask Questions: Ask the person if they need any help and if they have a history of panic attacks or anxiety. Ask if they have any medications they need to take or if they have any allergies.
• Find a Quiet Place: If possible, move the person to a quiet place away from the crowd. This will help them feel more comfortable and reduce their anxiety.
• Encourage Breathing Exercises: Breathing exercises such as deep breathing or box breathing can help the person feel calmer. Encourage slow and deep breathing.

Steps to give CPR to someone gasping while panicking 

In some rare cases, a person may be gasping for breath while having a panic attack. In such cases, CPR may be necessary. Here’s what you can do to help:

• Check for Responsiveness: Tap the person on the shoulder and ask if they are okay. If they do not respond, call for emergency medical services (EMS).
• Check for Breathing: Check if the person is breathing by placing your ear over their mouth and nose. If they are not breathing or gasping for air, start CPR.
• Perform Chest Compressions: Place the person on their back and kneel beside them. Put the heel of one hand on the center of their chest and put the other hand on top. Press down on the chest firmly and quickly, about 2 inches deep.
• Give Rescue Breaths: Tilt the person’s head back and pinch their nose shut. Breathe into their mouth for about one second, until you see their chest rise. Repeat this process twice.
• Continue CPR until Help Arrives: Repeat the chest compressions and rescue breaths until EMS arrives.

Get certification and recertification

If you are interested in learning CPR and other first aid techniques, consider taking a course from a certified provider like the American CPR Care Association. The courses are taught by certified instructors who are passionate about sharing their knowledge and experience with others.

Our courses are flexible, and we offer online and in-person training options, making it easy for anyone to learn at their own pace and on their own schedule. The online courses include interactive lessons, videos, and quizzes, providing an engaging and informative learning experience.

It is important to renew your CPR certification every two years to stay up-to-date on the latest techniques.

Key takeaway

Helping someone who is having a panic attack can be a daunting task, but with the right steps, you can make a big difference in their well-being. Remember to stay calm, speak softly, and encourage breathing exercises. In rare cases where the person is gasping for air, CPR may be necessary. It is also important to recertify in CPR every two years to stay up-to-date on the latest techniques. By taking these steps, you can help someone during a panic attack and potentially save their life.