People who receive panic attacks help might make slow progress, because they are simply going through the motions and not making real changes in their life, to break out of the anxiety circle. Changing certain beliefs and behaviors that are triggering panic attacks are part of the process, which treatments such as medication cannot achieve. This is because anxiety medication such as benzodiazepines and tricyclic antidepressants, fail to deal with the underlying cause or behaviors that trigger attacks.
Some people may become too reliant on medication and are not prepared, or just can't be bothered to make the changes in their life, to overcome anxiety. Changing behaviors and beliefs often requires a different approach and outlook on life. Chronic sufferers of anxiety, who are dependent on medication, often find that they become chronic users of anti-anxiety medication. Although medication can help control panic they fail to provide any lasting results.
Most mental health doctors would agree, that behavioral therapy is the best for stopping panic attacks. In addition, lifestyle, exercise and diet changes can play an important part in overcoming panic attacks. How often do you feel mentally fatigued, hazy and irritable because you're physically tired? And how often do you suffer from aches and pains in your body, when you've been stressed or anxious?
The body and mind are connected, and it's been proven that exercise can reduce stress and help a person overcome depression and anxiety. Exercise can help in a number of ways. Firstly, through physical exercise the body is able to burn excess adrenaline and stress hormones that are produced. When built up, these chemicals can do damage to our psyche and physical health. Exercise is a great outlet for unwanted stress, tension and anger, and it can help change your emotional state in an instant.
Secondly, during exercise, the body releases good feel hormones known as endorphins. These chemicals alone can change your mood and behavior. Another great benefit of exercise is that it improves phyiscal fitness. Having more stamina and energy boosts productivity and motivation. What's more you'll feel happier about the way you look and feel.
Exercising means very little however, if you're on a poor diet. This is why it's important to eat healthily too. It doesn't mean that you can't eat junk food, but just don't eat it all the time, a little indulgement is ok in moderation. Your body needs essential minerals and vitamins to function properly as well as a good balance of protein, fat and carbohydrate. Think of food as fuel rather than a means to thwart hunger. What you eat essentially contributes to your overall health and wellbeing.
Most sufferers of panic attacks find that cutting down on stimulants such as nicotine, caffeine and alcohol is a great panic attacks help. Avoid sugary foods and drink because these can fuel attacks. Instead try relaxing beverages such as chamomile and rosehip tea instead. These can help calm nerves and revitalize the mind and body.
Another excellent way to relax is through deep breathing exercises. Deep relaxation is a great way to unwind from a stressful day and release built up tension. Simply find a comfortable and quiet place where you can sit down, and with an upright but relaxed posture begin to inhale deeply and slowly; focus on your breath and on each exhale relax a part of your body, starting from the head down. When you reach your feet, you can repeat the process and continue for as long as you wish.
Most sufferers overlook these simple factors when receiving panic attacks help but studies have shown faster and better recovery in those that make lifestyle changes. Relying on medication alone is not enough to cure anxiety disorders. Furthermore, behavioral therapies such as CBT have proven to be far more successful in overcoming panic attacks compared to anti-anxiety medication. To find out more about behavioral therapy click here.
