Read on for more about what an anxiety attack is, its causes, symptoms and treatment. Find out as well how to identify if you are experiencing this and what you can do to help someone who is suffering from this disorder. Have fun reading!
What is an anxiety attack?
To understand an anxiety attack better, we have to first understand the concept of anxiety. This is a common emotion that we may experience in times of anticipation.
An anxiety attack is characterized when this feeling appears intensely and suddenly, without any apparent reason. In this case, there is a very strong reaction, which can manifest physical and emotional symptoms.
What causes a seizure?
One of the reasons may be low self-esteem , which causes the person to worry too much about how others will react. Such excessive thoughts often involve fear of the future and of judgment, which can trigger an anxiety attack. Genetic aspects are also factors that can influence this condition.
In this sense, it is important to understand that the triggers for crises can be different for each type of person. Therefore, identifying which ones can trigger the crisis is essential for control and adequate treatment.
What are the symptoms of an anxiety attack?
The symptoms of an anxiety attack can be psychological and physical. In general, there is an increase in adrenaline in the bloodstream. Below, check out the main signs that a person may present:
- shaking of arms and legs;
- dry mouth;
- compulsion to bite nails;
- difficulty concentrating;
- nausea and vomiting;
- accelerated speech;
- shortness of breathe;
- insomnia;
- irritability;
- constant fear;
- nervousness;
- palpitations and chest pain;
- excessive worry;
- panting;
- feeling faint;
- feeling that something bad is going to happen or that you might lose control;
- feeling of tremor;
- muscle tension;
- dizziness.
How do I know if I’m going through a crisis?
The crisis can be perceived by some of the symptoms we have discussed. However, many of the signs are similar to those of other physical and psychological conditions in stressful situations.
One of the most characteristic signs and symptoms is the feeling of chest ache, which may be pressured with a heart assault. However, inside the case of a heart attack, the pressure inside the chest is deeper and may persist for approximately 20 minutes.
In addition, heart attacks are associated with other types of pain, which can reach the arms, shoulders, abdomen and chin. Therefore, a medical evaluation is essential to differentiate what may actually be happening.
What to do in case of an anxiety attack?
Firstly, it is important to consider that health care can prevent this type of condition. A good example is Auriculotherapy .
When an anxiety attack occurs, it is important to try to remain calm in order to control your emotions and return to normal. See below what can be done.
Control your breathing
Restoring the natural rhythm of breathing in and out can greatly help control the attack.
One strategy for this is to breathe in through your nose for a depend of 4 after which exhale via your mouth for eight seconds. Wait any other 4 seconds and repeat the exercise until you sense calmer.
Change your focus and try to distract yourself
Focusing too much on a certain aspect can saturate your mind. Clearing your mind can help you overcome the crisis. Try talking to someone or remembering something pleasant.
Relax your muscles
An anxiety attack causes an involuntary contraction of the muscles due to tension. Small stretches, accompanied by breathing control, can help reverse this situation.
How to help someone during an anxiety attack?
When recognizing an anxiety attack in someone, it is possible to help them with some attitudes and postures, as we discuss below.
Avoid optimistic phrases
Even with good intentions, when people are experiencing an anxiety attack, they don’t want to hear phrases like “it will pass.” This can be interpreted as a reduction in the importance of the problem, making them more irritated.
Offer support and listen more
Offering support will make the person feel valued. Listening attentively and lovingly, rather than talking, is the best way to help them. At this time, try not to judge them to encourage them to vent.
Show sincere concern
An anxiety attack usually lasts about 25 minutes. Stay by the person’s side and show empathy. But avoid worrying too much, as this can increase anxiety. So act calmly and naturally.
Try to distract the person with good memories.
Try to divert the person’s attention with different subjects and reminders of positive situations.
What are the treatments for anxiety attacks?
Treatment with psychotherapy or a psychiatrist is necessary, and specific medication may be required. This is because professional monitoring allows you to understand the causes of the crises and how to control them.
In addition to treatments, it is also essential to change habits, as a complement to maintaining physical and mental health . To do this, it is important to review your routine, combat a sedentary lifestyle and seek to understand the triggers that generate crises.
Well -being at work is a fundamental factor in helping people with anxiety attacks. In this sense, it is recommended that companies train their leaders and seek professional guidance to deal with the problem in the best way possible.