A panic attack is defined as a sudden rush of intense fear which triggers physical reactions despite the lack of real danger, threat, or any apparent cause. Panic attacks are extremely disabling and it causes you to feel like you are losing control, passing out, or even dying. The occurrence of an attack is more common among those with anxiety, stress, and other psychological disorders.
People who have experienced panic attacks in the past have their own ways of dealing with it. This includes a variety of methods including breathing techniques, exercises, and meditation. Some even take medications like CBD pills and other cannabis-derived anti-anxiety drugs. In this article, we are going to discuss the common ways that people deal with panic attacks and how you can use these strategies in case it might occur to you or to someone you know.
Controlled and Mindful Breathing
During a panic attack, victims are typically found breathing rapidly and excessively. This causes an imbalance in the carbon dioxide and oxygen levels in the body which makes them feel light-headed and eventually pass out. One of the best ways to deal with panic attacks is to do controlled and mindful breathing.
If you feel like you are about to have a panic attack, try to breathe in slowly, deeply, and gently through your nose. Follow this with slow, deep, and gentle exhales through your mouth. Closing your eyes during this breathing process also helps you to focus and concentrate on your breathing. This strategy will help you avoid a panic attack from escalating. You should feel better after a few minutes but you may end up being tired or exhausted from the laborious breathing technique.
Regular Exercise
Studies and research have also shown that regular exercise can help prevent panic attacks as it can reduce stress levels, release tension, and improve your overall mood and confidence. Although any form of exercise would be beneficial, professionals especially recommend doing aerobic exercises. Essentially, aerobic exercise is any form of cardiovascular conditioning, also called “cardio”. Activities like jogging, running, swimming, cycling or even a series of stretches help increase your cardiovascular endurance which can make your body respond better to breathing problems during an attack.
Meditation
Another effective method of preventing panic attacks is through meditation. In and of itself, meditation covers a broad array of activities that calms and soothes the body and mind. Typically, it involves movements that are slow, precise, and gentle. It may also be accompanied by music or sounds that are relaxed and toned down. All these factors create a peaceful environment that is very conducive to focus. As some people would describe it, meditation gets rid of unwanted negative energy in the body. In turn, it makes you feel a lot lighter and less worried which boosts your overall mood and state of mind.
Cannabis-derived Products and Other Types of Anti-anxiety Medication
Some people resort to using specially formulated medication to deal with panic attacks. Currently, there are plenty of options in the market for products that are specifically manufactured to help calm you down, make you feel more relaxed, or help you sleep better. This typically takes the form of medication that has been derived from the cannabis plant.
Lots of research has already provided proof as regards the medical effects of compounds naturally found in the cannabis Sativa plant. As the public gains more confidence when it comes to the general use and consumption of these products, more people are also able to experience the health benefits it provides. This strategy is a solid option to try out, especially for those who still haven’t found an effective way to deal with panic attacks.
