How to Cure Panic Attacks

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Overview

Panic attacks take us by surprise and can often be scary. There are many causes to panic attacks, not all of which are readily apparent to one suffering the attack. The real key to solving the riddle of panic is to draw out the deep-rooted cause and address in a health manner.

Step 1

Identify, sort and reason out your feelings. This is an important in starting to understand the root causes behind your panic. Not only will you have a better idea of how you felt at the start of the panic attack, but thinking about your feelings will also create a diversion so you do not have to focus in on the attack itself. Once you have identified the feelings, inventory the level of strength these feelings have at the moment. Then, reason them out. Try to figure out why those feelings are present.

Step 2

Practice your breathing. One of the most natural responses to a panic attack is to breathe quickly and shallowly. This only exacerbates the attack. Instead, close your eyes and breathe deeply for 5 to 10 minutes. Even if the attack goes away, continue the breathing exercises. This is a good habit to get in to. In a way, it is a form of meditation that can be used on the spur of the moment. Deep breaths will oxygenate the brain and allow for clarity.

Step 3

Find a dark, calm place and meditate. Some people think meditation has to take huge amounts of time but centering can be accomplished in as few as 5 minutes. Your music, above all else, should be calming. Pretend you are breathing out all your worries and weights. When you breathe back in, you are taking in fresh, light air that refreshes.

Patrick Cameron

About this Author

Patrick Cameron is a freelance writer with 10 years of diverse experience in consumer goods branding, promotions and retail communications. He works out of his home in Denver, Colo. He received his Bachelor of Arts in mass communication from the University of Minnesota.

Last updated on: 01/08/10

Article reviewed by Helen Covington

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