Anxiety
Attack:
--Usually extended over a longer period of time
--Symptoms include: Muscle tension, disturbed sleep, difficult
concentrating, fatigue, restless sleep, etc.
Panic Attack:
--Usually quick and more intense
--Sypmtoms include: shaking, chest pain/discomfort, heart
papilations, fear of dying/losing control, feeling of choking,
etc.
What to do if someone you know is having a panic
attack:
--Telling the person to "calm down" does not usually
help
--Telling them to "stop overreacting" will make them
feel worse.
--Try to tell them that it will pass and that it will not last
forever
--Reassure them that they are in no danger
--If they want space, give it to them. Don't make them feel
closed in, even if you have good intentions.
Remember that panic attacks can make a person feel as though
they are dying
Imagine if you suddenly felt like you were about to die, and you
genuinely believed it right at that second. You could feel your
throat closing and your start sweating and shaking. Your heart
begins to race and your stomach begins to twist.
This is what people feel, so please be respectful.
Supporting someone while they're having a panic attack is an
amazing thing to do. But, be aware that what you say may can
cause more harm than good, regardless of your
intentions.