How to Treat Panic Attacks
Do you, at times, suffer from an overwhelming anxiety or irrational fear that you find yourself having shortness of breath, sweating, or shaking? It could be a panic attack. It can happen suddenly without a clear reason, and can be a one-time thing or may repeat numerous times. Find out about the treatment for panic attacks.
Definition of Panic Attack
Panic attack is a psychological condition wherein a defensive mechanism against threats is triggered by the brain. It affects a person in several ways. Some would experience heart palpitation and breathing problems. Lack of oxygen due to this will lead to more panic attack to the patient.
So, what are the treatments for panic attacks?
Exercise
To treat panic attacks, you should be able to practice relaxation techniques, such as yoga, tai chi or similar relaxation exercises. Meditation and allowing yourself to be one with nature can help you achieve a deep body relaxation. However, it is important that you practice these relaxation techniques in a peaceful environment to attain the desired result. Breathing and stretching techniques are the other forms of exercises that can also help control panic attacks.
Diet
Diet is one of the most important part in treating panic attacks. Watch your diet carefully and avoid caffeine. It can stimulate more activity rather than relax your brain and body. I know that most of us have already made coffee, soda, tea and even coffee candies part of our diet, but if you are one of those who experience panic attacks, it would be best to avoid them. Nervousness and anxiety can result from too much caffeine in the body. It can also deprive you of sleep that you will need to relax your body.
Vitamins and medication
Certain vitamins can be prescribed by your doctor to help you prevent or control panic attacks. Persons suffering from panic attacks can benefit from the calming effect of Vitamin B-complex in our system. Some anti-depressants and anti-anxiety medications may be prescribed by doctors to help patients relax during panic attacks.
CBT – Cognitive Behavior Therapy
CBT is done by a therapist to study the causes of panic attacks. Once found, they will resolve it with behaviors and responses that are more acceptable to avoid panic attacks. This will be successful only with the patient’s cooperation. Otherwise, knowing the cause of panic attacks will not really lead to a successful resolution.
Interoceptive Exposure Therapy
Exposure therapy is a proven successful treatment for panic attacks with certain risks. During a session, the therapist will trigger the patient’s panic attacks exposing him to the sensations of panic and fear. He will then be assured that the situation isn’t dangerous or harmful and will learn to deal with his fear. That knowledge of control over his fear will help the patient deal with his panic attacks in the future.
Persons suffering from panic attacks may avail of these treatments. The patient’s full cooperation and determination to treat panic attacks is evidently vital to the success of the treatments. Your therapist may advise you that it could only be a psychological thing as there could be nothing wrong with your body physically.
So, how to treat panic attacks? Just calm down and relax, and visit a doctor or a therapist for professional help.