How do you know if you’re having a panic attack?
I’ve read loads about them, and I’ve had one or two…but from what my councillor said it sounds like I’ve had a lot more than I thought. I always thought panic attacks were just when you hyperventilated and stuff…but are there different types/things that happens?
I’ve always been brought up just to deal with stuff, and whenever I was ill I wouldn’t get much sympathy unless it was something physical like the flu, or a cold so I don’t really know when theres something wrong because I just tell myself I’m being stupid or its all in my head. It’s been happening for a few years now, usually at school or when I’m on public transport – then it died down for a while…but not the same thigns are coming back and if they are panic attacks I should probably talk to a doctor, yeah?
You are right, there are many different types of panic attacks. Most people tend to focus on one symptom – hyperventilating, sweating, feeling faint, getting chills or feeling dizzy. But they are almost always accompanied by a feeling that you are in extreme danger and need to run away.
One thing to remember. You are not in extreme danger, you are panicking. And you don’t need to run away – you will only be running away from yourself! And no, you’re not stupid, but it is all in your head.
Panic attacks are caused by anxiety – an extreme type of fear. There is almost always an underlying cause. Is there something that’s been nagging at you that you haven’t addressed? Perhaps you’re worried about something you haven’t come to terms with. Are you claustrophobic and afraid of not being able to get out of class or leave a crowded place, like the school bus?
When we (and I get them really bad, so you’re not alone) suffer from panic attacks, we hyperventilate, which interferes with the release of carbon dioxide. This causes even more symptoms, like shaking, chills, palpitations and muscle spasms. That makes us think there must be something physical wrong.
Firstly, accept that you get them and then you will know, when one comes, that it’s nothing serious. Try and come to terms with any problems that you think may be causing them, because often panic attacks are just a symptom of an emotional issue. It’s the body’s way of telling you that your thoughts need to come out! And then learn some relaxation techniques.
There are also some nutritional things you can do to prevent them. Orange juice has worked for some people. Make sure you eat regularly and drink lots of water (I get them when I’m dehydrated).
And yes, they do come in waves. Once your body has them, it will always know how to get them again. But by managing your stress levels, you can prevent them. I had them really badly for a year, then they went away for another year, then came back. Have a look at www.videojug.com – they have some great videos on what panic attacks are. Type in panic attacks in the search box.
And last of all, relax. A panic attack is not something you get when your rent is due – it feels worse than that. But there are people who understand, and you won’t have them forever.
Take good care of yourself! 
Comments
Comment from EdisInaApsu
Time January 12, 2010 at 4:17 am
You know you’re having a panic attack when you’ve got 24 hours to repay your debt. ;D
References :
Comment from lucie
Time January 12, 2010 at 4:30 am
well panic attacks can come mostly from any type of emotional stress so they don’t have to necessarily just be hyperventilating. you are probably getting them at school or on public transport because there are a bunch of people that you may or may not know & no matter what they are probably silently judging you. this factor can get to people alot more than others, especially if you are somewhat emotionally unstable. or perhaps if your panic attacks always occur in public, you may have agoraphobia which is the fear of people and large crowds and such. however, if your panic attacks spur thoughts of suicide, i would definitley see a physician.
References :
Comment from Grace L
Time January 12, 2010 at 4:44 am
You are right, there are many different types of panic attacks. Most people tend to focus on one symptom – hyperventilating, sweating, feeling faint, getting chills or feeling dizzy. But they are almost always accompanied by a feeling that you are in extreme danger and need to run away.
One thing to remember. You are not in extreme danger, you are panicking. And you don’t need to run away – you will only be running away from yourself! And no, you’re not stupid, but it is all in your head.
Panic attacks are caused by anxiety – an extreme type of fear. There is almost always an underlying cause. Is there something that’s been nagging at you that you haven’t addressed? Perhaps you’re worried about something you haven’t come to terms with. Are you claustrophobic and afraid of not being able to get out of class or leave a crowded place, like the school bus?
When we (and I get them really bad, so you’re not alone) suffer from panic attacks, we hyperventilate, which interferes with the release of carbon dioxide. This causes even more symptoms, like shaking, chills, palpitations and muscle spasms. That makes us think there must be something physical wrong.
Firstly, accept that you get them and then you will know, when one comes, that it’s nothing serious. Try and come to terms with any problems that you think may be causing them, because often panic attacks are just a symptom of an emotional issue. It’s the body’s way of telling you that your thoughts need to come out! And then learn some relaxation techniques.
There are also some nutritional things you can do to prevent them. Orange juice has worked for some people. Make sure you eat regularly and drink lots of water (I get them when I’m dehydrated).
And yes, they do come in waves. Once your body has them, it will always know how to get them again. But by managing your stress levels, you can prevent them. I had them really badly for a year, then they went away for another year, then came back. Have a look at http://www.videojug.com – they have some great videos on what panic attacks are. Type in panic attacks in the search box.
And last of all, relax. A panic attack is not something you get when your rent is due – it feels worse than that. But there are people who understand, and you won’t have them forever.
Take good care of yourself!
References :
Comment from william m
Time January 12, 2010 at 4:55 am
You can read more about the symptoms of panic attacks in this article:
http://cureanxietydisorder.com/Symptoms_of_a_Panic_Attack.html
Hope this helps…
References :
Comment from hrhqc
Time January 12, 2010 at 3:56 am
can you ask your councillor and tell him/her what you said here?
They should be able to refer you to the appropriate help.
References :