Panic attack: what you need to know

Panic attack: what you need to know

Some of the most common triggers for a panic attack are everyday situations such as the fear of boarding a flight, getting into an elevator, or traveling on public transportation. Being in a crowded room could also trigger a panic attack. While most people in such a situation and with panic disorder experience a feeling of discomfort and nausea, some may experience a heightened sense of anxiety. Aside from the physical symptoms such as heart palpitations, tense muscles, and profuse sweating, a person may also feel unsteady, although there may be no real reason for this.

As a result, such people often try to avoid situations that could act as triggers. This could lead them to indulge in avoidance tactics and therefore not be part of important social functions such as a child's graduation or a wedding. Their excessive worry or fear can also isolate them from others who cannot understand their condition.

The American Psychological Association estimates that one in 75 people may suffer from panic disorder, a serious and extremely debilitating condition that can significantly impact a person's personal and professional life. While the exact causes of a panic attack are unknown, it is believed that certain major life changes, such as high school through college, marriage, and the birth of a newborn, can cause a panic attack. These transitions can lead to a sudden hormonal surge. For certain people, the risks are exacerbated due to a genetic predisposition to panic disorder. During some panic attacks, a person might revisit a previous trauma. Survivors of bombings or public shootings are more likely to react to flight or fight.

Feeling trapped and how that triggers a panic attack

Some panic attacks can make a person feel trapped or make someone feel trapped. Some of the most common triggers are:

• Irrationale Angst vor Flugzeugen: In der heutigen Welt, in der sich Menschen zunehmend auf Interkonnektivität verlassen, kann die Angst vor Flugzeugen nachteilig sein. Eine Person kann sich weigern, Essen zu nehmen oder die Toilette während eines Fluges zu benutzen, und manchmal aggressiv werden und schreien.
• Angst vor einem Sturz: Die Höhenangst kann Menschen davon abhalten, Rolltreppen zu besteigen oder eine Wohnung in einem hohen Gebäude zu beziehen. Sie können Abenteueraktivitäten vermeiden, weil sie befürchten, zu Tode zu fallen. Selbst das Überfahren eines Gewässers kann ein tiefes Gefühl der Angst auslösen.
• Angst vor Insekten: Die meisten Insekten sind harmlos und greifen nur an, wenn sie zuerst verletzt werden. Das hindert die Menschen jedoch nicht daran, Angst vor ihnen zu haben. Die ungeklärte Angst vor Spinnen ist ein solches Beispiel und ziemlich häufig. Einige glauben möglicherweise auch, dass ein Insektenstich unweigerlich zu einer Infektion oder einer tödlichen Krankheit führt, die ihre Angst verstärken kann.

Path to recovery

Anxiety disorders such as frequent panic attacks are treatable if advice from an expert is sought in a timely manner. Delaying the problem does not always mean that it will go away on its own. If you find that you have a tendency to worry unreasonably or be afraid of situations and people, you should consult a mental health professional at the earliest. The most common treatment methods target trigger prevention and trigger acceptance. Regular physical exercise, calming activities, and a healthy lifestyle can go a long way in combating panic attacks.

Inspired by Barbara Odozi