"I don't know how to help you Sophie" is something I would hear time after time when I had frequent panic attacks. Still now when the occasion rises I am forced to keep myself to myself, around those who are uncertain of how to deal with it, in order not to cause a fuss. I become the problem which I should not be, it is not my fault I am having a panic attack- nor is it yours. This is my PSA to you on how to deal if you ever find yourself in a situation with somebody who has anxiety. Friends, family, colleagues- everybody can benefit from being a little more open minded. So come on.
Sadly it isn't as simple as a bullet point list of this and that. Yet it is fairly straight forward if you just take your time to get to know the person in question. Ask them, knowing they experience anxiety, what makes them calm? This is vital. Sometimes I find comfort in hugs when I am anxious as my attacks are never violent. Glasses of water to maintain hydration are a must, being anything other than at your best is a prerequisite for trouble, plus it normally convinces me I'm not going to pass out (even though the adrenaline won't let that happen.) I also like chit chat, ask me about funny things I like or have seen or would like to do- it takes your mind off the anxiety. This differs from person to person but takes seconds to find out.
Don't leave them. You may feel tempted to distance yourself from those who are experiencing a panic attack because it looks strange or unnerving to you. I can completely understand as I still struggle to maintain composure around people who have psychotic episodes- some things take more knowledge and experience than others and in cases of extreme anxiety the person may need extra assistance or diagnosis. It is important however if the person feels vulnerable that you don't leave them. Being alone may cause them more agony and I know being alone myself when I'm having a panic attack is scary- especially at night.
If the person is in a state and you aren't their closest ally I'd recommend calling somebody they trust. A soothing voice can do wonders and a person who is willing to take time out of their schedule and make their way to the location is exactly what a sufferer needs- we love you people! It may be inconvenient for you but panic attacks are often over within about five to twenty-five minutes. You can make it easier for the person to calm down if you don't appear in a rush.
Don't judge them for things they say. I spout verbal diarrhoea when I'm panicking and often say things I don't mean or can't articulate. If something sounds odd don't make a big deal out of it. As well as this be reassuring if the person starts saying they feel "like they're going to die" or "pass out" or "I'm so scared" because these are clear signs of heightened anxiety.
It's terrifying I know but you can be so helpful by lending a hand to somebody in need. It's not always physical illness that causes suffering to those in our society. Mental Illness is a huge problem as well. I'd hugely advise reading up on specific illnesses and doing your research if you're genuinely concerned about somebody around you and want to help. Don't be the person to ignore somebody else's plight.
0 comments:
Post a Comment