Dear reader,

Everyone has heard the phrase “I feel like I am gonna have a panic attack,” or “I am so panicked.” But what is a panic attack? What is anxiety? What can trigger a panic attack?

Anxiety is a normal emotion for everyone, but some people have it so often or so severe that it interferes with daily life. It can be crippling to some, and even painful for others.

Panic disorder is a mental disorder characterized by feelings of anxiety, panic, and fear. It can come about for a lot of reasons, but it really depends on the person as to why they may be panicking. A panic attack can be triggered by a memory, or a current event, or thinking about future incidents that may occur. Depending on the person, they can have physical symptoms as well such as headaches, shakiness, the feeling of your chest being tight, or even feeling like you have to throw up.

Anxiety, along with other mental disorders, has been romanticized by many people as something that is ‘unique’ and ‘interesting’, when it should not be looked up to. I am not saying to look down on it, but it is not something that should be seen as cool.

Panic attacks can take many forms as well. They do not have to be your stereotypical rocking back and forth in a corner and hyperventilating. Panic attacks work differently for each person that has them. One person may completely disconnect from people and go silent, while another person may start feeling shaky and in pain. Sometimes it is hard to tell when someone is in the midst of a panic attack, while other times it may be more noticeable.

Some other notable symptoms of someone who is having a panic attack can include a sudden change in mood, increased fidgeting, increased sweating, or just overall body tension. More symptoms include nausea, palpitations, dry mouth, problems sleeping, dizziness, shortness of breath, and numbness or tingling in hands or feet.

Panic attacks or the disorder in general are not the result of personal weakness, a character flaw, or a poor upbringing, rather chemical imbalances and environmental stress.

There are several ways to try and treat this disorder: Medication, which may take different tries and doctors to set it straight. Psychotherapy is another form of treatment, which is a type of counseling to help discuss coping mechanisms and how to understand it. Cognitive-behavioral therapy is another form of counseling where you learn to change negative thought processes and behaviors. There are plenty of other types of therapy that could be alternative options, but these are the most well known treatment options.

Anxiety disorders, like many other mental health disorders, can not be prevented. But you can help lessen the severity of it by decreasing your intake in caffeine, talking to a doctor if random anxiety persists or gets worse, and not taking over the counter remedies unless you consult it with doctors before hand, for they may contain chemicals that can actually increase or worsen anxiety.

There is help out there for those of you who may be struggling, and i encourage you to stay strong and fight on!

Sincerely,