How do you help somebody who’s having a panic attack?
I’m in a long distance relationship, and my bf has recently begun having panic attacks. When he calls me during them, what would be good things to say to comfort him, and at least help him feel a little better? I feel rather helpless because I can’t actually be there with him.
I really hope somebody answers this. Even if the question is old by the time you get to it. Thanks!
First. get him to breathe deeply, part of what happens during a panic attack is constricted (or shallow and short) breathing. I had panic attacks and the deep breathing that I did actually over time stopped them. When you take adeep breath you let your brain get more oxygen, the more oxygen the more the fear (which is what a panic attack is)recedes. Have him do a minimum of four deep breaths that he lets how very slowly, this after about 5 to 15 minutes should help him a lot
Comments
Comment from Chad
Time January 7, 2010 at 1:27 pm
I know someone who goes through panic attacks. The main thing is to calm your bf down, and be supportive. It can be. Remain calm yourself. Also ask him before his next panic attack what helps him, what he would like to hear from you. Someone people don’t like to talk during panic attacks. Some also don’t want any attention because it will esculate it. Although I guess that is not the case since he is calling you. Don’t bombard him with questions during the attack. Just be reassuring and patient.
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Comment from hottie
Time January 7, 2010 at 2:17 pm
Tell him he needs to find a friend where he is at,just in case of an emergency. But to still call you .
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Comment from gapsterz26
Time January 7, 2010 at 2:37 pm
ask them to breath slowly hold their hand and try to comfort the victim
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Comment from magpie
Time January 7, 2010 at 1:01 pm
First. get him to breathe deeply, part of what happens during a panic attack is constricted (or shallow and short) breathing. I had panic attacks and the deep breathing that I did actually over time stopped them. When you take adeep breath you let your brain get more oxygen, the more oxygen the more the fear (which is what a panic attack is)recedes. Have him do a minimum of four deep breaths that he lets how very slowly, this after about 5 to 15 minutes should help him a lot
References :
I know because I had them about 10 years ago and the great thing about them is after you have gotten over them once, you are able to tell yourself, well I got over them once, if I ever get them again, I will get over them again I really hope this helps