HOW TO HELP SOMEONE
WHO IS HAVING A PANIC ATTACK
HELP THEM BREATHE
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Get them to breathe out a little longer than they breathe in, especially if they feel like they're going to pass out
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Count breaths if needed
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Encourage them to control their breathing
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Use a paper bag if there is one
DONT'S
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Shout at them
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Abuse them
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Tell them to calm down
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Tell them it's nothing and that they will get over it
5-4-3-2-1 GROUNDING TECHNIQUE
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5 things they can see
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4 things they can touch
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3 things they can hear
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2 things they can smell
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1 thing they can taste
IMMEDIATE ACTIONS
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Remove them from the situation which has triggered them
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Ask them about what they want you to do. This could be rubbing their back or leaving them alone altogether
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Do not touch them unless they give you permission
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Remember to calm them and not to pressure them into giving answers or asking them what caused the attack. Sometimes, panic attacks come from nowhere
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Be calm and patient
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Distract them
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Point things out to them to remind them of where they are
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If they take medication to deal with their panic attacks, remind them to take it
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People sometimes relapse a couple of hours after having a panic attack. keep close tabs on them and make sure they're okay
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If the person asks you to leave them alone, say something like "Okay, I'll be right outside if you need me"