Why this topic?
It's only human to feel anxious or panic at certain times. Until I did research on this topic, I didn’t know how to tell the difference between a panic and anxiety attack. I also didn't know what to do if someone near me was having one, or even tell if something was happening. In the future, I’m sure that in the future, I will be around someone going through a panic or anxiety attack, or I may go through one myself. I would want to know how to be prepared and know how to handle the situation.
What's the difference?
Both of them are very similar, so it’s easy to get them confused. According to Healthline, a panic attack happens in the moment while there are multiple stressors leading up to an anxiety attack. For example, if you’re afraid of heights, you may have a panic attack if you find yourself at the top of a roller coaster. An anxiety attack may happen if you’re a student and you have a week with a bunch of projects and tests. They usually last for around 20 minutes.
Signs and Symptoms
Again, both of these are really similar and have most of the same symptoms. Many of the common signs/symptoms are listed:
Fear/Nervousness
Fast heart rate
Sweating
Trembling/Shaking
Chart from Healthline: https://www.healthline.com/health/panic-attack-vs-anxiety-attack#symptoms
Why do they happen?
After comparing two articles from Mayo Clinic, I found that both of them can be caused by genetics/pre-existing conditions, and stress. Anxiety attacks can also be triggered by drug/alcohol/medicine misuse/withdrawal. They can also be signs to underlying health conditions. They are also usually caused by a buildup of fear or stress over a period of time. A panic attack is usually a reaction to fear in the moment.
How can you help someone?
Stay with them. Don’t leave
Hold their hand
Remind them to breathe
Remind them that this isn’t permanent
Take them outside for fresh air
Take them to a less crowded place
Say things like
“You can get through this”
“I’m right here”
Don't say things like
“Calm down”
“This is nothing”
“You’re making a big deal over this”
“Quit overreacting”
“This is embarrassing”
How can you help yourself?
If you’re alone and you start having an attack, remember these things:
Recognize what’s happening
Breathe
Realize that this will pass
Try doing something that will help you calm down
Showering
Listening to a calming song
Quote:
“I will breathe. I will think of solutions. I will not let my worry control me. I will not let my stress level break me. I will simply breathe. And it will be ok. Because I don’t quit.”
-Shayne McClendon (Author)
Sources
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