Long before the COVID-19 pandemic, we were already living in a fast-paced, anxiety-inducing world.

Given our vulnerable state, the onset of the coronavirus pandemic has quickly made things worse. Stress levels are at an all-time high, and anxiety & panic attacks are increasing too.

Below, we’ve put together a guide to panic attacks, that could help you or your loved ones:

What is a Panic Attack?

An abrupt attack of a very intense fear, a panic attack tricks your mind into believing that you’re in imminent danger, or about to enter a threatening situation.

Sometimes people only get a panic attack in a stressful situation, and it goes away when they remove themselves from the stressful environment.

For many people, however, panic attacks can be recurring, which is a condition called a panic disorder.

Panic Attacks – Knowing the Causes

Experts believe that any of the following factors can cause panic attacks:

1. Changes in Brain Functioning

Sometimes illnesses, injuries, or other factors such as prolonged drug use can affect the way the brain works, making a person more susceptible to panic attacks.

2. Higher Sensitivity

People who are more sensitive and feel things more intensely could be more prone to panic attacks, even if they know how to express emotions.

3. Stress

Panic attacks brought on by high levels of stress could happen after major life events such as giving birth, losing a loved one, or going through a serious illness.

They could also be caused by traumatic events such as being assaulted, or being in an accident.

4. Unresolved Trauma

People who’ve been abused, or have had a traumatic childhood, can often hold on to these feelings in adulthood.

If they don’t heal by addressing and resolving their trauma, they’re more likely to experience panic attacks & panic disorders later in life.

5. Genetics/Family History

Along with physical diseases, people can also be genetically predisposed to various psychological and mental disorders.

It’s essential to know your family’s physical and mental health history, so you can take a more proactive approach to your own well-being.

Panic Attacks – Knowing the Symptoms

Panic attacks, at least initially, happen without warning. Over time, though, people may learn how to identify feelings that precede a panic attack.

Once an attack is over, people feel exhausted and drained.

Symptoms generally subside within a few minutes, and include:

• Elevated heart rate
• Difficulty in breathing
• Tightness and pain in the chest
• Dizziness or lightheadedness
• Sweating
• Chills or hot flashes
• Uncontrollable shivering or trembling
• Nausea
• Abdominal pain
• A sudden fear of death
• A sense of imminent danger

What to Do About Them?

You should seek treatment as soon as possible, to prevent your panic attacks from getting worse. Experts recommend keeping your stress levels in check, eating healthy food, and living a balanced life that allows adequate time for work, exercise, and rest.

Your treatment may include hypnosis for anxiety, lifestyle changes, and medication if your panic attacks are caused by biological reasons.

At Blossom Hypnosis, the highly experienced certified hypnotist Rekha Shrivastava offers effective hypnosis in Rochester, NY to treat your anxiety & panic attacks. Benefit from her Rochester, NY hypnosis sessions in person, or join an online session through Skype or other platforms.

Set up your first Rochester hypnosis treatment or a free consultation by contacting us today.