Realizing what can cause panic attacks is an important part of finding relief. You cannot stop something from happening if you don't know what the causes are. This article is filled with helpful tips for the prevention of panic attacks.
Sleep a little extra during periods of frequent panic attacks. If you do not get enough sleep you increase your chance of getting an attack. It will also keep you from thinking clearly and coping properly if you happen to go through an attack. Always try to get at least eight hours of sleep every night.
If you feel that a panic attack is imminent, try to listen to some of your favorite, calming music. Quietly sit and take in songs that are soft and calming in nature while attempting to focus in on the lyrics. The more you focus your mind on something other than your symptoms, the easier it will be for your body to calm down and let go.
Try deep breathing and relaxation exercises when you are having a panic attack. You can get control over future attacks by learning to have a more relaxed and open manner of breathing.
Don't let the panic attack overwhelm you. Work through the panic attack instead of fighting it. Visualize that the feelings are in a flow that is moving around you as opposed to going into your core. Focus on controlling your breath above all else. Inhale and exhale evenly and slowly, as doing so requires remaining calm. Once your blood pressure starts to lower, your body will relax.
Getting professional help is best, but confiding in a good friend or relative, especially if they have dealt with the same challenges, can also be beneficial. A therapist or psychiatrist can help you pinpoint why you have attacks in the first place, then find solutions for address the root causes.
When you are about to have a panic attack, you stand a better chance at beating it when you accept what's about to happen. Realize that your feelings, although uncomfortable, are not permanent and will soon pass. Consciously trying to fight symptoms can actually make them worse, while just going with the flow can make them go away more quickly.
Keep in mind that you have experienced this before, and nothing terrible happened. Staying focused will help you get through a panic attack faster, whereas adding to your anxiety with negative thoughts will prolong and worsen it.
Always be aware when your anxiety level seems to escalate. When it comes to your anxiety and stress, you need to be your own best advocate. This self-awareness may afford you the advantage of preempting attacks by enacting control as you sense anxiety rising. Tuning into your anxiety will also help you better cope with any panic attacks that do arise.
It will be to your advantage to use the suggestions listed above. This advice should help you reduce or avoid panic attacks. If you do end up suffering from a panic attack, you can use the information presented to lower its intensity and make it last a shorter amount of time.