answersLogoWhite

0

An anxiety attack can strike at nearly any time during nearly any activity. The average person will only experience them during extreme excitement and stress, but those suffering from panic disorder can experience them while watching television or while driving, increasing the importance of knowing how to stop an anxiety attack. Most doctors recommend steps to use one's discipline to minimize the effects of the attack. To understand how to minimize the effects of an anxiety attack, it is necessary to understand the problem. This occurs with too much adrenaline in the body, causing the brain to sense an emergency as adrenaline is the hormone that is common with emergencies in the body. The brain causes the adrenaline to pump through faster; the heart works harder, speeding up breathing, and it would not stop if it could. An anxiety attack occurs when firing an emergency signal at the wrong time or when it cannot shut down the signal after the emergency is over. The body keeps making adrenaline, which causes the physical effects felt during the attack. Many who suffer from an anxiety attack claim that they feel like they will die while hyperventilating in an anxiety attack. Specialists agree that stopping an attack can be done by controlling the brain through willpower. There are several techniques used, but it usually comes down to four basic ideas: The sufferer needs to acknowledge that an anxiety attack is happening, distract the brain through other thoughts, breathe deeply and shift the focus elsewhere. When the attack starts, acknowledge that it is happening. It is important to shut down the thoughts like "I can't control this" and "I am going to die" since these will only contribute to the emergency signal. Some may want to say "stop" until the body calms down while others may prefer to say things like "I am okay" and "I can control this." It is also important to stop hyperventilation by breathing in deeply as the anxiety attack will open the airways naturally. When the attack starts to quell, it is time to look back and see what may have triggered the panic and to shift the focus on something away from that. If it is not possible, such as in the middle of driving, then instead focus on positive and calming thoughts. Sometimes, the deep breathing can be enough of a distraction while music can help in other times.

User Avatar

Wiki User

12y ago

What else can I help you with?

Related Questions

What are anxiety attacks often mistaken as?

Anxiety or panic attacks can be mistaken for heart attacks (although it is actually rare for anxiety attacks to cause heart attacks, especially in young people).


Can stressful relationship cause anxiety attacks?

Yes, stressful relationships can trigger anxiety attacks. The emotional turmoil and constant tension can overwhelm an individual, leading to heightened stress responses. This stress can manifest physically and psychologically, resulting in anxiety attacks as the body reacts to perceived threats or distress. Managing relationship stress through communication, therapy, or support can help mitigate these effects.


Anxiety attacks are often mistaken by what?

Heart attacks.


Is it normal to have visual disturbances during anxiety attacks?

To the extent that anxiety attacks are "normal," it's not uncommon.


Where online can one find information on treating anxiety attacks?

One can find information online for treating anxiety attacks at The Anxiety Disorders Association of America's website. The ADAA offers a lot of information on treating and preventing anxiety attacks.


You have anxiety really bad and panic attacks will your dr give you xanax if you tell her about your attacks and anxiety?

It depends on how severe they are.


What are some of the symptoms of anxiety attacks?

Some symptoms of anxiety attacks are: heart palpitations, sweats in your hands, and fainting.


What is the side effects of anxiety?

Yes, all of those are emotional and physical signs of anxiety. Anxiety has also been linked to depression, with many who suffer from anxiety attacks prone to, or having a history of, depression. For more information on anxiety symptoms and cures, please visit http://www.helpguide.org/mental/anxiety_types_symptoms_treatment.htm


How do you approach my girlfriend who has anxiety attacks without triggering another one from her?

You need to approach a girlfriend who has anxiety attacks by bringing up issues that will not trigger anxiety.


What helps when treating anxiety attacks?

The best medication to take for anxiety is no medication at all. I would recommend meditating as a solution. That way you will ease your mind, body and soul without the costs and side effects.


What types of situations cause anxiety attacks in individuals who have been diagnosed with an anxiety disorder?

There are several situations that can cause anxiety attacks in individuals who have been diagnosed with an anxiety disorder. These situations include environmental factors such as closed spaces or a large group of people that can trigger attacks.


Does mucinex cause anxiety attacks?

It can.