How can i help someone who is experiencing panic attacks?
Hey lovelys <3
A really good friend of mine has been experiencing lots of panic attacks the last few months, often when i was around.
she has depression (diagnosed) and is also in theraphy, but i dont know how to help her best when she is currently having a panic attack.
I always try to calm her down but then it only gets worse. She cant breathe then, feels dizzy and is shaking ( and lots more though).
I want to give her the best support i can but dont know how. Does someone here know how to help someone with panic attacks?
Thanks a lot and wishing everyone a good day!
@dynamicHemlock1736
Panic Attacks are different for everyone... and helping them is just as different.
There are a few things you can consider from my experience ..
1 - Stay calm and be present. Just being calm and there can be a lot of help - it doesn't feel like it but it can actually help -- especially calm. Calm seems contagious when it is true calm.
2 - Calmly ask is they need anything. There is nothing worse for me than someone anxious and blitzen out trying to figure out how to respond and asking me a million questions trying to "help" that is anything but help. A simple, "I'm right here, if you need anything, just say so, okay?"
3 - If you notice them becoming unsteady while standing - say so, and guide them to a chair. Don't just start steering, inform them of the need to move and why -- they may not be aware of the situation and it's always good to loop them in just in case.
4 - Let it runs it course - then try to talk to them. Anxiety - Panic Attacks don't have to have a trigger - they can just happen. Be willing to be supportive and offer an ear when they feel like talking about it. Sometimes its a total shut down after a panic attack - it's like a post-storm recovery period and reboot, respect that - but just be available.
@dynamicHemlock1736 I definitely agree that asking the person what they need is the best course of action because everyone's needs are different! It might be a good idea to have this discussion with your friend when she's not actively having a panic attack because sometimes when people are having one they're so overwhelmed that it's difficult for them to think clearly. Do keep in mind that their needs might not always be the exact same so if you're about to do something to try to help them, always ask first to make sure it's okay. I'd also say to be mindful of the way you speak to her when she's having a panic attack. Keep your voice steady and speak clearly.
In general, it's important to be mindful of that person's space. If they're having a panic attack somewhere in public, especially if it's somewhere loud or crowded, it may be helpful to guide them to somewhere that's quieter. Some may find something like you touching their shoulder to be grounding/calming but others will want to avoid any close contact whatsoever. Those who mean well may try to hug a person going through a panic attack but this can make hyperventilating worse so be very careful with that kind of thing. Ultimately the most important thing you can do for your friend is to communicate that you care and that you want to be able to support her!