What can you do to comfort someone who is experiencing a panic attack? The first thing you should do is listen.
Even though the person who is having the panic attack may not be able to immediately verbalize what they may need it is vital that they see you being attentive to their needs and ready help with what is going on.
A great way to show that you are truly supporting them is to look them in the eye and occasionally nod your head.
This can go a very long way in expressing to the panic attack sufferer that you are with them.
Keep in mind that while maintaining eye contact is great you do not want to stare at them in a way that shows you are shocked or caught off guard by the situation.
They do not need to see their friends around them to panic.
Another thing you can do is to simply let the person know you care.
One small gesture that shows them that you care is to give them a hug or put your arms around them.
You can also hold their hands or stroke their back in a gentle, soothing manner.
What many people are looking for is physical evidence that they are not alone.
When circumstances are filled with emotion words are not enough.
Having someone with them by their side to combat the sudden physical messages that their body is sending is a much needed step in the healing process.
When should you not touch someone? While listening to a person is almost universally accepted and appreciated, physical touch can make a person more anxious or on guard.
This is where your sensory acuity should come in handy.
Only touch someone that you know well, are related to, or you know will accept this form of comfort.
The last thing you want to do is further escalate any feelings of panic on their end.
You do not want to make a casual acquaintance, coworker or friend even more anxious with an unwanted advance.
You may think you are being helpful but they may see it in a completely different light.
Warm and supportive eye contact along with appropriate touch and affirming words will give someone who has high anxiety what they need to get through it.
In a nutshell the two "no no's" are: 1.
Avoid unwanted or inappropriate touch with people you don't have a strong connection with.
2.
Don't stare or give any appearance of shock or inability to handle the situation.
Hope this helps but know that this is just the tip of the iceberg.
Learn more about how to cure panic attacks by clicking the link below.