How To Deal With An Anxiety Attack

First off: anxiety attacks are different than panic attacks. In this post, I’m going to talk about ways to work through an anxiety attack.

1) Recognise it.

If you suffer from anxiety, you’re probably familiar with the physical symptoms that go with it. The pounding heart, racing thoughts, shaky limbs, sudden-onset IBS. When these symptoms (or anxiety) don’t subside over a period of time, but continue to increase, reaching a crescendo - know that you’re having an anxiety attack. Just acknowledging that to yourself can reduce the anxiety marginally.

2) Breathe.

Now that you know what’s happening, you can focus on your breath. Notice the breath going in and coming out. Notice your thoughts, but don’t engage in them. Focus on the physical feeling of the breath.

3) Think about the next immediate step.

When you’re able to, think of the next thing you need to do. It might be to stand up, walk to the bathroom, and take a shower. Focus on that. Or it may be that you need to change your clothes.
Whatever it is, gently focus only on the NEXT IMMEDIATE STEP - take it literally one step at a time.

Remember, at the end of the day, if nothing works, it’s OK to take a break.