Panic Attacks
A panic attack is a sudden increase in anxiety and is an exaggeration of the body's normal response to fear, sometimes referred to as the 'fight or flight' response.
During a panic attack, this reaction can cause a number of physical and emotional sensations such as, feelings of unreality, very rapid breathing or feeling as if unable to breathe, palpitations (rapid heartbeat), dizziness, chest pains, sweating, tingling in hands and feet and feelings of absolute terror.
Panic attacks can last anything from 5 to 20 minutes. People often report feeling as if they are going to die or go mad when they experience a panic attack. It is very important to remember that these physical symptoms are all part of panic and that this is not going to happen. (Adapted from MIND booklet How to Cope with Panic Attacks)
How can we help you
- Gateway Team - the access point to mental health services
- Poole Book Prescription Scheme
There are books available about panic from local libraries and bookshops:
"Overcoming Panic" by Derrick Silove
"Panic Attacks" by Christine Ingham
Below are detailed web links to information on panic attacks:
- www.mind.org.uk/Information/Booklets/How+to/How+to+cope+with+panic+attacks.htm
- www.mind.org.uk/Information/Booklets/Other/Mindtroubleshooterspanicattacks.htm
- www.nice.org.uk/nicemedia/pdf/CG22publicinfoamended.pdf
- www.nimh.nih.gov/health/publications/anxiety-disorders/complete-publication.shtml
- www.helpguide.org
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