When someone is experiencing a panic attack, providing calm and supportive care is crucial. Staying calm and reassuring the individual helps create a safe environment, which can significantly reduce their anxiety. During a panic attack, the individual may feel overwhelmed by fear or panic, and they often struggle to cope with their physical symptoms, such as rapid heartbeat, shortness of breath, or dizziness.
Assisting them with focusing on their breathing is an effective strategy. This can help shift their attention away from the panic attack and onto something they can control—namely, their breath. Encouraging slow, deep breaths can eventually help reduce the intensity of their symptoms and allow them to regain control over their physical sensations and emotions.
This supportive approach fosters a sense of safety and connection, which is essential during such a distressing experience. It can lead to both a quicker resolution of the attack and help build trust between the caregiver and the individual suffering from the attack. Other options, such as encouraging exercise or leaving the person alone, may not address the immediate needs of someone in distress and could potentially exacerbate their feelings of isolation or panic. Seeking immediate medical attention might be unnecessary unless the individual is experiencing severe symptoms or if there is a concern for their safety.