A person experiencing an anxiety attack suffers from extreme terror and fear, and may feel as though he is having a heart attack or dying. Symptoms include chest pain, sensation of losing consciousness and hyperventilation. Panic attacks generally occur without warning, climax after 10 minutes and rarely last over 30 minutes, advises HelpGuide.org. Episodes, also known as panic attacks, are often so intense that a sufferer feels as if he is losing complete emotional and rational control.
Step 1
Reassure the person that an anxiety attack is not life-threatening or dangerous. Calmly explain that anxiety attacks typically last less than 30 minutes, and reassure him that you will stay in his presence during the attack until he feels safe.
Step 2
Do not ask the person many questions, which can cause additional confusion. A person experiencing an anxiety attack will not be able to process questions appropriately. Give simple, firm directions to ease confusion.
Step 3
Encourage the person to breathe slowly through her nose using medium, not large, breaths. Explain that slowing down respirations eases panic attack symptoms. If his breathing slows down but he continues to complain about chest pain, he may be suffering from a heart attack, in which case seek immediate emergency medical attention. Remember to stay calm and focused even if the situation becomes more severe.
Step 4
Remove the person from high stimulus or public areas. Ask the person if he is able to walk comfortably to another location, since some sufferers are unable to walk due to dizziness and temporary loss of limb function. Avoid small rooms or areas where the person may feel enclosed or trapped, advises the book "Psychiatric and Mental Health Nursing."
Step 5
Agree with the victim that the experience is frightening and feels very real. According to a 2009 "BMC Psychiatry" article, first aid responders should never belittle or disregard a person's emotions during an anxiety attack.
Tips and Warnings
- Treating recurring anxiety attacks may prevent a more complex anxiety disorder from developing.
- Leaving a person during an anxiety attack may worsen the severity of the attack.
References
- HelpGuide.org: Anxiety Disorders
- National Institute of Mental Health: Panic Disorder
- MedlinePlus: Panic Disorder
- "BMC Psychiatry": Development of Mental Health First Aid Guidelines for Panic Attacks: A Delphi Study
- "Psychiatric and Mental Health Nursing"; Ruth Elder, Katie Evans, Debra Nizette; 2009
