What is Panic Attack Awareness Day and how can panic attacks be managed?

Panic Attack Awareness Day is on 10th July 2024 and is a dedicated day aimed at raising awareness about panic attacks. It is used to highlight the importance of understanding and recognising panic attacks, reducing stigma, and promoting mental health resources.

Managing panic attacks involves a combination of immediate response techniques, lifestyle changes, and professional treatment options.

In this blog, we have put together our top strategies for managing panic attacks:

Immediate Response Techniques

  1. Deep Breathing: Practice slow, deep breathing to help calm the body’s stress response.
  2. Grounding Techniques: Engage your senses to stay connected to the present moment.
  3. Positive Affirmations: Remind yourself that the panic attack will pass and that you are in a safe place. Repeat calming phrases to yourself.
  4. Visualisation: Imagine a peaceful place or situation to help reduce anxiety and distract from the panic attack.

Lifestyle Changes

  1. Regular Exercise: Physical activity can help reduce anxiety and improve overall mood.
  2. Healthy Diet: Eating a balanced diet and avoiding excessive caffeine and sugar can help manage anxiety levels.
  3. Sleep Hygiene: Ensure you are getting enough quality sleep, as sleep deprivation can exacerbate anxiety.
  4. Stress Management: Incorporate stress-reducing activities into your routine, such as yoga, meditation, or hobbies you enjoy.

Professional Treatment Options

  1. Cognitive-Behavioural Therapy (CBT): A form of therapy that helps individuals understand and change patterns of thinking and behaviour that contribute to panic attacks.
  2. Medication: In some cases, medications such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) or benzodiazepines may be prescribed to help manage symptoms.
  3. Therapy and Counselling: Working with a therapist can provide support, teach coping mechanisms, and help address underlying issues contributing to panic attacks.
  4. Support Groups: Joining a support group can provide a sense of community and shared experiences with others who understand what you’re going through.

Overall, Panic Attack Awareness Day serves as a reminder of the importance of mental health and the need for compassionate support and effective strategies to manage panic attacks.

If you or someone you know is suffering from Panic Attacks, speak to a medical professional for advice and support.

At BNSHE Consultancy, we provide Mental Health First Aid Training Courses designed to equip you with a fundamental understanding of mental health and practical strategies for maintaining your own mental well-being.

Our courses also empower you to confidently support individuals in distress or experiencing mental health issues. You will gain valuable skills in engaging with someone who suffers from panic attacks or is facing other mental health challenges.

For more information about this and other courses, click here or email us at info@bnshe.co.uk today.

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