Are panic attacks normally associated with depression?!
Question:
Are panic attacks normally associated with depression?
my husband cannot figure out the difference. i have panic attacks, but he does not understand that i am not depressed
Answers:
Hi, sorry to hear you’re getting panic attacks. There is often a crossover between panic and depression, but fundamentally panic attacks are symptomatic of anxiety, not depression. If you want to eliminate panic attacks try the following steps.
1. Breathe properly. If you control your breathing, you control panic. As soon as you notice the signs of anxiety, check your breathing: breathe in slowly through your nose pushing your tummy out (to the count of 5 or so). Breathe out slowly and for a bit longer (to the count of 7 or so) through your mouth. Do not breathe rapidly or shallowly (in the chest area). This will soon restore the balance of oxygen and you will feel a lot better.
2. Try Cognitive Behavioural Therapy! CBT is proven to be the most effective thing for panic attacks and anxiety. It takes a bit of work, but it is super effective. (After 15 years of panic attacks, mine stopped completely). You can take a course for free online at livinglifetothefull.com It has been funded by NHS Scotland and has had great results thus far.
3. Try relaxation exercise tapes (progressive muscular relaxation). They really help if you practise often enough.
Best of luck to you both.