Anxiety is commonly described as a natural emotion that most people will experience at some point in their lives. It is that feeling of restlessness or nervousness before an important interview or when facing unknown situations. However, in some cases, this anxiety can take a more overwhelming turn, leading to what is known as an anxiety attack.
Having an anxiety attack can be a very confusing and debilitating experience, so it’s normal to wonder What does it mean to suffer an anxiety attack and what psychobiological explanations may be behind it?. In this article, we will explore this topic in detail, answering this question and offering you ways to deal with an anxiety attack.
An anxiety attack, also known as a panic attack, is an overwhelming experience of intense anxiety and fear for no apparent reason or obvious trigger. During an anxiety attack, a person may feel a number of physical and emotional symptoms that can be frightening and debilitating. These symptoms can vary from person to person, but commonly include:
The duration of an anxiety attack is variable, usually peaking within the first 10-15 minutes, but some symptoms may persist longer. These episodes are often unpredictable and can occur at any time, which can cause sufferers to live in constant fear of their next occurrence.
Anxiety attacks can be triggered by a variety of factors, and it is often a combination of these that triggers this overwhelming experience. It is important to remember that these causes are usually highly individual and complex. What is a trigger for one person may not be a trigger for another. Some of the common causes of anxiety attacks include:
1. Genetic factors
There is evidence that anxiety may have a genetic basis. If you have a family history of anxiety or related disorders, you may be at higher risk of experiencing anxiety attacks.
2. Acute or chronic stress
Stress is a common trigger for anxiety attacks. The demands of everyday life, such as work, personal relationships, or financial problems, can increase the likelihood of having an anxiety attack.
3. Past traumas
Traumatic experiences, such as abuse, accidents, or violent events, can leave a deep mark on the mind and increase susceptibility to anxiety attacks.
4. Medical illnesses and mental health conditions
Some andMedical illnesses and mental disorders, such as thyroid disease, depression, or panic disorder can contribute to the occurrence of anxiety attacks.
5. Substance use
Substance abuse, such as alcohol or drugs, can trigger anxiety attacks or worsen symptoms in people prone to anxiety.
How to deal with an anxiety attack
Facing an anxiety attack can be a challenging experience, but there are effective strategies that can help you deal with these episodes. It is important to remember that dealing with an anxiety attack takes time and practice. In conclusion, here are some tips that you can consider to deal with an anxiety attack:
Practicing deep breathing can help you regain control during an anxiety attack. Inhale slowly through your nose, count to four, and then exhale slowly through your mouth. Repeat this process several times.
2. Focus on the present
A useful technique is to anchor your mind in the present. Describe out loud or in writing what you see around you, identify objects and colors. This can help you get out of the spiral of negative thoughts.
3. Progressive relaxation
Learn relaxation techniques, such as progressive muscle relaxation, which involve tensing and relaxing your muscles to release built-up tension.
4. Seek support
Don’t hesitate to talk to someone you trust during an anxiety attack. The simple action of sharing your feelings can be comforting and provide emotional support. As we have already mentioned before, do not hesitate to go to a mental health professional ; It’s okay if you can’t manage an anxiety attack on your own, it’s normal to need professional help.
