The Unrelenting Mind

 

Diffusing a Critical Situation:

Racing thoughts, hyperventilating, profuse sweating, headaches, shaking, and a sense of impending doom. These are the very thoughts that affect many people during a severe panic attack. Noticing the signs is obvious, but knowing what to do... not so much. It's a well-known fact that too many people don't know what to do in the case of a panic attack. They can feel defenseless and useless in a situation where someone close to them is actively shutting down. It's safe to say that at one time or another everyone has dealt with this situation. So what are the do's and do not's to follow when someone is in this fragile state? Here is a list below to provide some insight into helping a person through this situation! 


DO:

* Remain calm and stay with the person 

* Ask them if there is anything they need

* Help the person slow their breathing by counting to 10

* Be reassuring and remain positive ("You can get through this"/"I'm proud of you") 

* MOST IMPORTANTLY Be Patient!!!


DO NOT:

* Don't minimize the person's current state 

* Avoid being judgemental and talking the person out of it

* Avoid raising your voice or grabbing hold of the person 

* Avoid using sayings such as "Just calm down" or "You're embarrassing yourself"   




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