tw panic attacks, anxiety
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the difference between an anxiety attack and a panic attack and how to deal w them when they happen an informative thread

panic attacks -
first off, the definition of a panic attack is a sudden episode of intense fear or anxiety and physical symptoms, based on a perceived threat rather than imminent danger. this could include but isnt limited to shaking/shivering, crying, or screaming.

this is what most people think of when they hear "panic attack" but a lot of people experience it differently to this. it could also be rocking back and fourth silently, or just sitting/standing/lying in a spot feeling as though u r paralysed, or excessively fidgeting/moving.

this all comes on quite suddenly, anywhere, anytime. its not always triggered either, some ppls anxiety can just cause it to come out of nowhere. other physical symptoms can include hot flushes/chills, increased heart rate, dizziness, sweating, nausea, and chest pain.

if you ever happen to hyperventilate or get severe chest pain due to a panic attack, uts best to call for help, even an ambulance.

anxiety attacks - these can built up gradually, they are usually due to an expected worrying event, like a job interview, first day at school, even leaving the house or having people over, these occur bc of to negative anticipation, but share many of the same symptoms as a PA.

experiencing an anxiety attack prior to an event youre worried about, you may pace, tap your legs, bite your nails, or ur lips, etc. u could worry abt this even for hours, says, even weeks, and the anxiety builds up the closer the event comes. it isnt sudden like a panic attack.

treatment/how to calm down from a panic attack -
not to sound like a broken record but TAKE DEEP BREATHS, try to focus on something else, call someone, try to take ur mind elsewhere, grab a plushie/pillow or a pet and hold it, listen to music, and ASK FOR HELP.

treatment/how to calm down from/during an anxiety attack -
pretty much the same as a panic attack, breathe, try to focus on something else, do a hobby, get some water, play w a pet if u have one, go for a walk, to yoga if ur into that, scroll thru social media/pinterest.

i hope this thread helped, i have had anxiety and panic attacks b4 so i rly hope u guys find this useful