It is very common for anxiety attacks to occur immediately without any type of warning. So if you are put in a situation like this, it can be very helpful to know exactly what to do if the situation of a panic or anxiety attack arises.

First of all, when helping someone in this situation, it is important to know exactly what an anxiety attack is. It is when a person suddenly feels an overwhelming amount of fear. There is no warning to when this situation arises. Some of the symptoms of this type of situation include: shortness of breath, chest tightening, sweating, dizziness, fear or dying, and many other types of symptoms.

It is very important to recognize what the causes of the panic or anxiety attack is. If the person is having a hard time breathing, this could be a sign of asthma. Chest pain could be a heart attack. Normal anxiety attacks do not produce heart attacks or asthma.

If you are able to distinguish exactly what is the causing the panic for the person, this can help end the panic and anxiety in a much more quickly manner. If possible, take the person away from the source of the anxiety. Many times, a person who is having an anxiety attack may have already been through this several times before, so ask them what they would like you to do for them and there is a good chance they will be able to tell you what needs to be done to end their anxiety and panic.

Keep the person as relaxed as possible and make sure they do not attempt to hurt themselves. If needed, contact help for the person. Assure them that help is on the way and things are definitely going to be alright.