Panic attacks

We will all have experienced feelings of anxiety and panic at certain times, but a panic attack is more extreme. In a panic attack, you can experience a rush of intense anxiety and fear, causing you to feel a mix of physical and mental symptoms at once. This can be incredibly distressing. Panic attacks are often linked to other conditions, such as anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and phobias.

What are the symptoms or signs of a panic attack?

Panic attack symptoms can be both overwhelming and exhausting, often leaving you feeling drained once they subside. They typically last between five and thirty minutes and can feel very intense. Some of the symptoms of panic attacks include:

• Feeling suddenly and intensely anxious
• Feeling trapped
• Rapid breathing (hyperventilating)
• Feeling hot and sweaty
• Feeling sick, dizzy or faint
• A tight chest
• Feeling like you might faint or even die
• Feeling like you are not connected to your body

Who do they affect?         

Panic attacks can affect anyone at any time in their lives. In the UK, at least one in ten people have experienced panic attacks, so be assured that you are not alone.

How can TALKWORKS help with panic attacks?

One of the best things you can do to help yourself is reach for help when you are struggling. This could be to a friend, family member or someone that you are close to. If you'd prefer to talk to someone outside of your family or friends, you can talk to TALKWORKS.

TALKWORKS is a free NHS talking therapies service, made up of NHS clinicians, who are here to help you. After listening to your difficulties, we can work with you to help you to overcome them and feel better. Our therapists are trained to help you to manage symptoms of a panic attack and can provide you with a collection of tools and techniques to help you to look after your wellbeing.