Panic attacks are very frightening and can be debilitating. Sometimes sufferers are afraid to leave the house. The attacks limit a person’s ability to enjoy or be successful in life because they fear another attack, preventing them from travelling, gaining or maintain relationships, shopping, going out for a walk etc. Despite substantial long-term disabling effect panic attacks have, many people fail to seek treatment for it. It is important to know that panic attacks are treatable and there is no need to put up with them anymore.

Symptoms of Panic Attacks

Do you feel:

	mounting fears that suddenly become overwhelming?
	your heart rate increase.
	trembling or shaking.
	short of breath or sensations of being smothered.
	like you are choking.
	nauseous.
	dizzy or light headed.
	detached from reality or from yourself.
	you are losing control.
	a fear of dying.
	numbness or tingling.
	chills or hot flushes or sweating.

 Panic attacks feel like being in terrible danger and there is a powerful urge to escape, even though nothing is immediately threatening. Each attack can last up to 30mins although it feels longer to the person who is experiencing it.

What Causes Panic Attacks?

The first panic attack can be triggered by a stressful event eg loss of a partner, job or health, shocks such as an accidents or attacks. During these times body mounts a flight or fright response which floods the body with adrenalin, sets the heart racing and raises blood pressure.

After the first event the mind monitors situations and stimuli; compares them with the original stressful event and overreacts (eg a slight increase in heart rate caused by caffeine can be misinterpreted as a warning sign and the body reacts, as if there is a real and present danger).

Help with Panic Attacks: What can I do?

	Learn and practice coping skills, breathing and relaxation techniques; ways of thinking that will greatly reduce your symptoms.
	Are you caring for yourself? Exercise, healthy food and good quality sleep are all useful for alleviating the symptoms of panic. Yes, it really can be as simple as that.
	Listen to your inner chatter (does it support or punish you?) are your thoughts rational or exaggerated? Learn to recognise what’s real and true; and stick with that.
	Is your life hectic and out of balance? Can you reduce how much you are undertaking, or use time management to make your life more organised?
	Don’t allow your fear or need for secrecy stop you from seeking treatment for your panic attacks. You deserve to be happier and to free to do the things you need or long to do.  Contact me on 0161 710 2468 or This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it   and make an appointment as soon as you feel ready to be free of your panic attacks.