Dealing with people who are suffering from anxiety is not always the easiest task. The position, in general, may feel burdensome, difficult and arduous if an individual is unaware of the necessary steps to take to truly assist someone that is struggling with it. As anxiety is triggered a lot of the time and marked by panic and anxiety attacks, it is important to put yourselves in the person’s shoes and really try to understand what could and would be helpful.
1. Do not immediately resort to physical comfort --
One of the most important aspects to consider when dealing with someone going through a panic attack is that not everyone responds to touch in the same way. For some individuals, it may be helpful and supportive to feel physical touch. However, this act has the tendency to trigger more anxiety, fear, and discomfort, and can heighten anxiety levels during a panic attack. Be mindful and observant of the person’s reception to touch in order to figure out if it would help or worsen the attack.
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2. Do not say “Calm down” --
There is no doubt that if the person wanted to, they would love to stay calm and relax as much as possible. It’s crucial to remember that remaining calm is exactly the problem when coping with anxiety and the person does not have control over their anxiety or relaxation levels. Telling the individual to calm down may even cause them to spiral into more anxious levels for failure to accomplish a state of calmness.
3. Do not leave the person alone and unattended --
Though it may feel as though your presence and efforts are not helping the situation, do not give up and try to give the individual space. Your presence is not only emotionally and physically supportive, but you can ensure that possible dangers such as an inability to breathe properly, are not threatening to the individual.
4. Avoid asking them to describe how they feel --
Remember that during a panic attack the greatest priority is to reduce anxiety levels and return the individual to emotional normalcy. Do not keep asking them if they are OK and to describe the way in which they are feeling. That will not only increase anxiety and panic levels but does not constructively help the individual in any way.
