Anxiety VS Panic Attacks
“Anxiety doesn’t come about from thinking about the future,
but from wanting to control the future”
Kahlil Gilbran
Anxiety is an emotion characterized by feelings of tension, worried thoughts, elements of fear accompanied by physical changes like increased blood pressure, sweating, or rapid heartbeat. People with Anxiety usually have recurring intrusive thoughts or concerns.
Anxiety is usually related to the anticipation of a stressful situation, experience, or event; whereas fear is an appropriate, present-oriented, and short-lived response to a clearly identifiable and specific threat. Symptoms of Anxiety include worry, distress, and future orientated fear.
Alternatively, Panic Attacks come on suddenly and involve intense and often overwhelming fear. During a panic attack, the body’s autonomous fight-or-flight response takes over. Physical symptoms are often more intense than symptoms of anxiety, and can include a racing heartbeat, shortness of breath, or nausea.
While anxiety can build gradually, Panic Attacks usually come on abruptly.
Panic attacks typically trigger worries or fears related to having another attack. This may have an effect on your behavior, leading you to avoid places or situations where you think you might be at risk of a panic attack.
How can I treat ANXIETY naturally?
If you feel anxious or a panic attack coming on, try the following:
Take slow deep breaths. When you feel your breath quickening, focus your attention on each inhale and exhale. Feel your stomach fill with air as you inhale. Count down from four as you exhale. Repeat until your breathing slows.
Recognize and accept what you are experiencing. If you are already experiencing anxiety or a panic attack coming on, you know that it can be incredibly challenging. Remind yourself that the symptoms will pass and you’ll be alright. Practice self compassion. Know you are safe.
Use relaxation techniques. Relaxation techniques include guided imagery, aromatherapy, and muscle relaxation. If you’re experiencing symptoms of anxiety or a panic attack, try doing things that you find relaxing. Close your eyes, image a calming environment, walk in nature, take a bath, try using lavender, which has relaxing effects.
Practice mindfulness. Mindfulness-based interventions are increasingly used to treat anxiety and panic disorders. Mindfulness is a technique that can help you ground your thoughts in the present. You can practice mindfulness by actively observing thoughts and sensations without reacting to them.