Panic Attacks

What is a Panic Attack?

A panic attack is caused by a trigger such as a thought, smell, place or object, that can leave us feeling overwhelmed with fear, sometimes we know what the trigger was and sometimes we wonder why we are feeling panicked. We may look back at times afterwards and realize that the amount of fear was disproportionate to the actual event or situation.

If we start to experience frequent panic attacks, we can begin to avoid certains situations that were previously normal or pleasurable for us, this can then start to have a very limiting effect on our whole life style.

Here are some of the symptoms that people experience when having a panic attack:-

• Fast, shallow breathing.
• Rapid heartbeat.
• Feeling dizzy or faint.
• Sweating
• Feeling nauseous.
• Feeling hot or shivering
• Tingling sensations
• Weakness in our legs.
• Visual disturbance
• Shaking
• Worrying thoughts

If we are running at a high level of stress, we are more likely to have panic attacks than if our stress levels were lower.Talking with a counsellor can help you reduce your general anxiety which will in turn reduce the likelihood of having panic attacks.

Counselling is a process that will help you understand the panic cycle and how general anxiety effects the likelihood of panic attacks. As a counsellor I will also be able to give you coping strategies plus breathing and relaxation techniques. Once we understand panic, then begin to control panic , we will start to take back control in our lives and do again the things that we used to enjoy.

Counselling sessions to help with over coming panic attacks take place in a safe and comfortable room at the Health Hydro, Milton Road, Swindon.

Please contact me to find out more about counselling and how counselling can help with panic attacks.

Counselling

Couples Counselling

Coaching