Panic
Sometimes people can suddenly feel overwhelmed with extreme anxiety and fear, referred to as a Panic Attack. They may shake uncontrollably, with intense feelings of distress. This is a severe form of anxiety that affects you physically. It’s an over-reaction to stress. The body is responding to a situation that is too much for it.
Panic attacks come on suddenly and sharply when you’re deeply disturbed by something. You might think you’re having a heart attack, nervous breakdown, dying or going crazy. There are horrible scary feelings and thoughts, caused by chemicals the body sends out to ‘protect itself’ because it thinks it’s in danger. Usually, there isn’t any real danger. When the attacks continue on a regular basis, the condition is known as Panic Disorder. To prevent this disorder from developing, it is best to get help when you first realise what it is that you are experiencing. Then you can address the condition before it takes hold.
Common Causes of Panic
- Drugs like cocaine
- Family predisposition
- Getting caught in a crowd
- Overuse of stimulants like coffee
- Overwhelming situations
- Places that remind you of previous attacks or traumas
- Serious losses or sudden unpleasant changes
- Seriously upsetting memories
- ‘The last straw’ when you’re already very stressed
- Withdrawal from medication
Common Symptoms of Panic
- Chills or hot flushes
- Dizziness
- Intense fear
- Lightheadedness
- Nausea
- Numbness or tingling
- Pounding or racing heartbeat
- Shortness of breath
- Tightness of chest
- Trembling
To read more about Panic, see downloadable PDF: Panic and Managing Catastrophic Thoughts.
Counselling for Panic
If you experience any of these symptoms, visiting a counsellor could pave the way to feeling better. A counsellor can help you to
understand and manage whatever is causing these feelings. Talking through your fears can help you to see things more realistically. In addition, certain breathing, mindfulness and relaxation techniques can calm the body so that it does not go into extreme stress mode. Especially Mindfulness therapy, combined with cognitive techniques can lead to getting rid of panic attacks once and for all. If you would like to find out how, click on the image to book your session.
Contact Radiance Hobart Counselling & Self-Development
now for more information about what we have to offer