How to help a person overcome a panic attack in public

Image source: Bbc.co.uk

So many people suffer from panic attacks that occur unexpectedly. When in public, companions need to provide support for someone who might be experiencing an attack. Capt. Martin Lloyd Sanders, Ph.D., CSP, suggests these methods that will help a person recover from an episode.

Keep calm and do not leave the person

Those who suffer from panic attacks might cause others to believe that they need space while they wait for the symptoms to pass. However, it is better to have someone who will stay by their side, especially when the physical symptoms seem to be intense. When the companion is composed, they can offer help, medication, and even lead the person having an attack to take deep breaths until the panic subsides. Going to a quiet and hidden place will help the person regain composure.

Communicate with the person

A person going through a panic attack may not be able to think clearly, according to Capt. Martin Lloyd Sanders, Ph.D., CSP. Asking straightforward questions will help them say what they need. It might also be good to ask them about the cause of their attack. Sometimes, verbalizing what's on their mind might shift their perspective, causing them to recover from anxious, overpowering thoughts. Offering water or medication might just be exactly the help they need.

Image source: Today.com

Encourage positive thoughts

Aside from leading the person to monitor breathing to ease the symptoms of a panic attack, reassuring him or her with encouraging words will allow for a faster recovery. Letting them know that they are brave for riding it out will cause them to open about what triggered the experience. When speaking with them, it's important to inform them that though what they have gone through was intense, it was not dangerous.

Captain Martin Lloyd Sanders, Ph.D., CSP, is an officer in the Commissioned Corps of the U.S. Public Health Service and has rendered over 10 years of service in occupational safety and health. For more articles like this, check out this page.

Disclaimer: This site was prepared by Martin L. Sanders in his personal capacity. The opinions expressed are the author's own and do not reflect the views of the USPHS, the Department of Health and Human Services, or the United States government.