Panic Attacks

Hypnotherapy in Benfleet could help you deal with your Panic Attacks - don't let them rule your life!

Everyone gets anxious or stressed out from time to time, in fact it's totally normal. However, when you suffer a panic attack it feels anything but normal.

Panic attacks, or anxiety attacks, can happen completely 'out of the blue' and often for no apparent reason. Panic attacks are distinguishable from other forms of stress or anxiety by their sudden, episodic nature and by their sheer intensity. The symptoms of a panic attack normally peak within 10 minutes; most attacks will last for between five minutes and half an hour.

For a lot of people who suffer with panic attacks, the most upsetting and stressful aspect is the unpredictability of attacks. The feeling that they might experience an attack, without any warning, any time, any place creates a constant heightened degree of anxiety. So this constant fear of panic, can itself lead to the development of a phobia, as the panic attack sufferer tries to avoid places where they think an attack might occur.

Symptoms vary between individuals but may include:

Shaking
Chest tightness or pain
Increased sweating
Difficulty breathing properly
Tension
Increased blood pressure and heart rate
A fear that "something awful" is going to happen
And in very bad cases, a fear they may die

Panic attack hypnotherapy Basildon Essex

Hypnotherapy is used to try and help you to modify negative thought patterns stored in your subconscious, working in harness with behavioural techniques such as NLP, and to increase your self-esteem and ability to relax.

If you suffer with panic attacks you should always consult your GP first to rule out any medical conditions which may need to be addressed. However if your GP is happy for you to proceed with hypnotherapy as a complementary therapy then maybe it could help you! Get in touch today.

Self Help Techniques for Panic Attacks

If you have a panic attack try to remember a few of these useful coping techniques:

Stay where you are - If possible, you should stay where you are during a panic attack, you may need to pull over and park where it is safe to do so if you are driving. Do not try to rush to a place of "safety".
Focus - Remind yourself that the frightening thoughts and sensations are a sign of panic and that they will eventually pass. Try to focus on something that is non-threatening and visible, such as the time passing on your watch, or different items on a supermarket shelf.
Slow deep breathing - try to focus on your breathing. Feelings of anxiety could get worse if you breathe too quickly so try to focus on slow, deep breathing while counting slowly to three on each breath in and out.
Positive visualisation - Think of a place or a situation that makes you feel peaceful, relaxed or at ease and try to focus your attention on it to help distract you from the situation and your symptoms.

Hypnotherapy for panic attacks in Basildon Essex

Do not fight an attack - this can often make the experience worse. Instead, reassure yourself by accepting that although it may seem embarrassing, and your symptoms may be difficult to deal with, your attack is not life-threatening. Focus on the fact that your attack will have an end and try your best to let it pass.
Relaxation - If you have panic disorder, you may feel constantly stressed and anxious, particularly about when your next panic attack may be. Learning to relax can help to relieve some of this stress and tension, and may also help you to deal more effectively with your panic attacks when they occur. Some people find that complementary therapies help them to relax or maybe more physical activities like yoga could prove helpful.
Exercise - Regular exercise, particularly aerobic exercise, could help you to combat stress, release tension and can also encourage your brain to release the chemical serotonin, which is a your natural "feel good" chemical. You should be aiming to do a minimum of 30 minutes of vigorous exercise, i.e. going for a brisk walk, at least five days a week. However, if you have not exercised before, or for a long time, you should visit your GP for advice before starting a new exercise programme.
Diet - unstable levels of blood sugar could contribute to the symptoms of a panic attack. Therefore, you should maintain a healthy, balanced diet, eat regularly and avoid eating sugary food and drinks. Avoid caffeine, alcohol and smoking because they could also contribute to panic attacks.