1. Stay calm and patient
The most important thing you can do when helping someone during an anxiety attack is to stay calm yourself. Remember that anxiety attacks can be frightening for the person going through them, so it is essential to maintain a reassuring and patient demeanor. Your calm presence can help them feel more secure.
2. Encourage deep breathing exercises
One effective method to help someone regain control during an anxiety attack is to practice deep breathing exercises together. Instruct them to breathe in deeply through their nose, hold it for a few seconds, and then exhale slowly through their mouth. Encourage them to repeat this several times until they feel more relaxed.
3. Offer reassurance and validation
During an anxiety attack, it is common for individuals to experience irrational thoughts and fears. Instead of dismissing their concerns, reassure them that their feelings are valid and that you are there to support them. Avoid saying phrases like “calm down” or “it’s all in your head,” as they may invalidate their experience.
4. Create a safe and quiet environment
Find a calm and quiet place where the person experiencing the anxiety attack can feel safe and comfortable. Turn off any unnecessary noise and dim the lights if possible. Creating a peaceful environment can contribute to reducing their anxiety levels.
5. Distract and redirect their attention
Helping someone take their focus away from their anxiety can be beneficial. Engage them in a conversation about something unrelated or suggest distracting activities. Encourage them to focus on their surroundings, such as noticing specific objects or counting them. Diverting their attention can help lessen the intensity of the attack.
6. Be patient with their recovery time
After an anxiety attack, the person may need some time to recover and regain their composure. Respect their need for space and avoid pressuring them to bounce back immediately. Offer support in the form of a listening ear or a comforting presence without pushing them to talk or act before they’re ready.
Supporting someone through an anxiety attack requires a combination of empathy, patience, and practical assistance. By staying calm, encouraging deep breathing, and creating a safe environment, you can help ease the person’s anxiety and facilitate their recovery. Remember that each individual‘s experience with anxiety may vary, so it is always important to be understanding and adapt your support to their specific needs.
- Stay calm and patient
- Encourage deep breathing exercises
- Offer reassurance and validation
- Create a safe and quiet environment
- Distract and redirect their attention
- Be patient with their recovery time