Panic attacks

What is a panic attack?

A panic attack is a sudden onset of intense fear or discomfort that reaches a peak within minutes and is accompanied by physical symptoms. It usually lasts between minutes to an hour. The experience can be very frightening and overpowering, for both the one who is experiencing a panic attack as their environment.

Panic attacks can be very distressing and disruptive to daily life. It can even lead to avoidance of certain situations or activities where the panic attack has occurred.

When the panic attack is reoccurring, and someone is extremely worried about having a new panic attack.

Panic attack symptoms

How to recognize a panic attack? What does a panic attack feel like? Some common symptoms of a panic attack include:

• Rapid heartbeat of palpitations
• Shortness of breath or hyperventilation
• Sweating
• Trembling, chills or shaking
• Nausea or stomach discomfort
• Chest pain or discomfort
• Blurred vision
• Feeling dizzy or lightheaded
• Feeling detached from oneself or reality
• Feeling numb or tingly in hands or feet
• Fear of fainting or dying

How to stop a panic attack?

Panic attacks are usually caused by stress or other underlying mental health issues. Techniques that can help you manage panic attacks include deep breathing, exercises, progressic muscle relaxation, and mindfulness meditation. Other factors that can have a positive influence are regular exercise, a balanced diet, and adequate sleep.

To stop panic attacks on the long run it is beneficial to work on the root of the problem. In our program we focus on underlying issues. We help you identify these so you can cope with them in a better way.

Panic attack & medication

Some doctors prescribe medication to help you deal with panic attacks and stay calmer in certain conditions. Most of the time it is given in combination with therapy. Anti-anxiety medications can help reduce the frequency and severity of panic attacks.

Treatment of a panic attack

The Grange Youth Clinic learns young people how to stop and deal with panic attacks. In our treatment we’ll focus on underlying issues which cause feelings of intense panic. We offer a safe environment with 24/7 medical and professional assistance. During your stay in the clinic you’ll experience the trust, warmth, community and acceptance you’ll need to break through this cycle.

What causes a panic attack?

It can be challenging to find out what causes a panic attack yourself. Panic attacks can be caused by a variety of factors, like stress, genetics and changes in brain chemistry. Panic attacks are above all widely associated with other mental health conditions such as anxiety disorders or depression.

Need help? Contact us

The Grange Youth Clinic can help young adults who are dealing with panic attacks. Learn more about our treatment here or register for an intake interview below. If you would like to register a young adult or young adult (aged 18-25) for a treatment at The Grange Youth Clinic, please complete our intake form and we will contact you to schedule a personal intake interview. Our therapists have experience working with individuals from all walks of life and will help you overcome your problems and find hope for the future.