A panic attack is a sudden and intense episode of fear and discomfort that typically lasts for several minutes. During a panic attack, an individual experiences a combination of physical and psychological symptoms, such as rapid heartbeat, sweating, trembling, shortness of breath, chest pain, dizziness, nausea, and a sense of impending doom or danger.
Exploring the Science Behind Panic Attacks: Understanding the Biological and Psychological Triggers.
From a scientific perspective, panic attacks are thought to be triggered by the activation of the body's fight-or-flight response, which is a natural physiological response to perceived threats. The fight-or-flight response involves the release of hormones, such as adrenaline and cortisol, which increase heart rate, blood pressure, and respiration, and prepare the body to either fight or flee.
The Fight or Flight Response: Understanding the Physical Symptoms of a Panic Attack
A panic attack can feel different for everyone, but typically it involves a sudden and intense feeling of fear or terror that can be overwhelming. Some of the common physical symptoms that people experience during a panic attack include:
Rapid heartbeat or palpitations
Sweating
Trembling or shaking
Shortness of breath or a feeling of choking
Chest pain or discomfort
Nausea or stomach upset
Dizziness or feeling lightheaded
A sense of unreality or detachment from oneself or surroundings
Fear of losing control or going crazy
Fear of dying
People may also feel a sense of impending doom or intense anxiety during a panic attack and feel like they need to escape the situation or seek help immediately.
Panic attacks can be very frightening and can happen unexpectedly, sometimes without any obvious trigger. They usually peak within 10 minutes and typically last up to half an hour, but the physical and emotional effects may linger for longer.
From Panic to Peace: Strategies for Managing Panic Attacks
If you feel a panic attack building, it may be helpful to focus intently on something. Music can help, as can focusing your gaze on a specific item. Asking yourself what you can smell, see, hear, and feel is another great way to reduce the intensity. This is due to you using a different part of your brain which is innovative and not referring to previous patterns of behaviour.
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You can find more information on Panic attacks from the NHS Here
Warmly,
Charlotte