Panic Attacks and How To Cope

First, your pulse increases. Then comes the heavy breathing, the hyperventilation. Suddenly there's chest pain; it feels like someone has set your heart on fire. You feel like something awful is going to happen, but you have no idea what or why.

According to WebMD, these are a few of the symptoms of a panic attack. Chances are, many of you may have experienced one before, even if you didn't realize it at the time. The symptoms can manifest themselves in a mild way, or in a way so severe that the victim may feel like they're having a heart attack.

Nothing brings on a panic attack. Unlike anxiety attacks, which are caused by stress and have apprehension as a main symptom, panic attacks are completely unprovoked and often have more exaggerated symptoms.

Continued panic attacks are a sign of a broader problem such as panic disorder. Panic disorder is prevalent among adults in the United States, affecting roughly six million people. It affects women more than men, and there's evidence to suggest that panic disorder is genetic.

So what can be done?

Medication is the obvious answer. If you suffer from severe panic attacks, it might be the best option for you. However, if you're against medication or want to try to cope in a different way, there's other options such as breathing techniques. One such technique is to breathe in for seven seconds, hold for eight and then exhale for six. You can repeat this as necessary.

Another tip is exercise. As difficult as this may seem during a panic attack. simple exercise such as walking or stretching can potentially help relax and clear your mind.

One last tip is to simply ground yourself. Concentrate on each body part, one at a time; first your head, then your neck, then your hands, arms, and torso. Continue to work your way down until you reach your toes. Recognizing each body part helps you remember that you are still present, and that the panic attack is only temporary.

While there's no surefire way to cure panic attacks, these tips can help you cope in the moment and put your racing mind and heart at ease.

This blog is for you.

This blog is for those who struggle with anxiety. This blog is for those who wake up in the middle of the night with their breath caught in their throat. This blog is for those who fear the most seemingly simple task. This blog is for the random panic attacks, hyperventilating, insomnia. This blog is for the oblivious parents, misinformed teachers and unaware friends. This blog is for those who aren't aware of what anxiety is, and for anyone who's ever been told to "get over it". This blog is for you.