Inside a Panic Attack

But I want you guys to know and recognize the signs of a panic attack, and start to get a feel for what it's like.

• Hyperventilating (quick, short breaths)
• Tingling in the mouth, hands, and toes. (as a result of hyperventilation.)
• Dizzyness (again, as a result of hyperventilation)
• Heart palpitations (heart beating fast)
• Sweating
  
• Choking (not actually choking, but gagging on something and getting the feeling you're choking)
• Shaking or trembling
• Crying

Those are what happens when I get panic attacks. Here are some other things to look out for:

• Smothering or shortness of breath sensations
• Chest pain or discomfort (this especially can make it feel like a heart attack)
• Nausea, bloating, or abdominal discomfort
• Disrealisation (feeling unreal or dreamy)
  
• Depersonalization (feeling outside of yourself or like you don't exist)
• Fear of losing control of going crazy
• Skin losing colour
• Hot/cold flashes (like menopause!)
• REALLY REALLY needing to pee or poo

Some of these things I used to experience, but ever since I learned to recognize that I was having a panic attack I also learned that I wouldn`t lose control or go crazy. That was nice to know. Depersonalization was something that happened consistently through grade 7,8 and 9. Every person and every attack is different- most times, I don`t cry.

OKAY! The number one thing not listed? PANIC! I also get frustrated. You may not feel there is a reason for you to be panicking, but you are. Too late! Sometimes it can appear out of nowhere. I've had panic attacks after sitting quietly, focused on my units. I`ll be write-write-writing and then suddenly there it is! Or maybe you can find a reason. Either way, you`re having a panic attack. Knowing what can trigger them is important, because then you can try to prevent them. (Note: not by avoiding your trigger, but by slowly practicing until it doesn't have as much of an effect on you.)

BREATHE DEEPLY AND SLOWLY. This can be so, so difficult when you're already hyperventilating. I tried this time, but it didn't work out for me. Another technique is to focus on an object and describe it in detail to yourself. They're both hard things to do, but they work when you can do it. If you're with someone having a panic attack, walk them through these exercises gently and slowly.

The Aftermath. I usually feel really tired after a panic attack, and just a little bit stupid and embarrassed. Although if it happens in a public place, like on the bus or at school I'll try my best to move on. I don't know if that's the best thing to do or not, but that's what I know for now.