What To Do When Someone Is Having A Anxiety Attack?

Stepping Up During A Crisis: Aiding Anxiety Attack Sufferers

When the going gets tough, as the saying goes, the tough get going. However, witnessing someone in the throes of an anxiety attack can be a bewildering experience, leaving even the most resilient among us feeling somewhat at sea. Whether it’s a friend, family member, or even a stranger, the question of what to do can induce anxiety in even the coolest cucumber. But fear not! With a cocktail of empathy, action, and understanding, you can become a veritable beacon of support for someone caught in anxiety’s tempestuous waves.

The Do’s: Your First-Aid Kit for Anxiety Attacks

First off, let’s talk turkey about what TO DO. This isn’t your grandma’s list of remedies but rather a go-to guide forged from the collective wisdom of mental health professionals and those who’ve weathered their own storms of anxiety.

1. Stay Calm, Carry On: Keep your own cool. Your calm demeanor can be a lifeline to someone who’s feeling anything but calm.

2. Location, Location, Location: If possible, help the person find a quiet and comfortable place. It’s not about being fussy; a tranquil environment can significantly dial down the anxiety meter.

3. Lend Your Ear: Engage in active listening. Sometimes, what a person needs is not solutions but a sympathetic ear. Let them know you’re there without judgment or haste to fix things.

4. Breathing Buddies: Encourage deep, slow breathing. This isn’t just hot air; it’s a proven technique to help regain control over runaway anxiety.

5. Stay Put: Stick around, but don’t smother. Offer your presence as a source of comfort without crowding their personal space.

The Don’ts: Pitfalls To Avoid

Now, for the flip side – the absolute don’ts. Steer clear of these pitfalls to avoid unintentionally cranking up someone’s anxiety from a simmer to a rolling boil.

1. Don’t Play Doctor: Avoid doling out what you think are sage medical advices, like suggesting medication or diagnosing their condition. Leave that to the pros.

2. Avoid Downplaying: Steer clear of phrases like “Calm down” or “It’s all in your head.” These can come off as dismissive and can escalate the person’s anxiety.

3. Sidestep the Showdown: This isn’t the time for a debate on whether their anxiety is rational. Anxiety doesn’t thrive on logic.

4. Forget the Fan Club: Crowding the person with too many people can increase their anxiety. Think intimate gathering, not a surprise birthday bash.

5. Relax on the Rapid-Fire: Bombarding them with questions or solutions can overwhelm. Keep it simple and supportive.

After The Storm: Post-Anxiety Support

Once the immediate crisis has weathered, your role shifts to that of a supportive navigator helping them explore long-term coping strategies. Encourage them to seek professional help if they haven’t already, and maybe do a bit of research on anxiety disorders. Knowledge is power, after all. Importantly, check in with them periodically. Consistency in support can make all the difference.

In the digital age where we’re often looking for quick fixes and instant solutions, supporting someone through an anxiety attack requires something a bit more old-fashioned: patience, compassion, and understanding. Armed with these tools, you’re well-equipped to be a pillar of support for someone navigating the stormy seas of anxiety.