I started having panic attacks from quite a young age, and to be totally honest with you... they suck!

Having your whole body go into shock is no one’s idea of fun and unfortunately you can’t control them happening.

Since I started experiencing them, I have done a lot of research, testing and trialing of techniques to help me cope and recover when my body feels overwhelmed.

Here are my four tips for dealing with a panic attack:

1. Learn to breathe.

Learn to breathe! I know it sounds simple but it has changed my life. Practice these Belly Breathing Exercises and put them into use next time you have a panic attack.

Remember slow meaningful breathes from your belly will help you to overcome the breathlessness feeling.

2. Focus on your senses.

Use all your senses, what can you see, taste, feel, hear and smell?

Try and be as present in your body as possible and think through all that you are sensing.

If you can, try and find something calming things that you can see, taste, feel, hear and smell so you can resort to those when a panic attack sets in.

Perhaps it’s touching fluffy blanket, smelling a nice candle, hearing your favourite song, tasting ice cold water or seeing the way the flowers move with the wind.

3. Distract yourself.

Try what you can to get your mind off of the panic.

I pop frozen blueberries in my mouth to distract my mind and get back into my body.

The cold is a surprise and almost the shock that I need!

4. Ride the wave.

Although it’s far from ideal, sometimes it’s easier to ride the wave of panic until it eventually passes.

Even though it is a horrible feeling, a panic attack will never last. Simply find a quiet space where you feel comfortable and safe and let the process play out.

Eventually you will begin to feel better.

Lastly, please know that you are not alone and reach out for support if this is something you are experiencing on a regular basis ❤️