Sunday, December 10, 2006

Tips to Prevent Panic Attacks

While panic attacks can certainly be frightening, it is important to understand there are tips to prevent panic attacks which you can use to stop these vicious problems right in their tracks. There are a wide variety of tips that can be utilized; however, it must be pointed out that many of these tips require regular practice in order for them to be effective. Breathing and relaxation techniques are an excellent example of tips to prevent panic attacks that can be practiced and used on a regular basis. Ideally, these techniques should be practiced on a daily basis in order to see the most achievement from them. It is important to take the time to learn and practice these techniques when you are feeling calm and not at all panicked. Through this type of regular discipline you will learn how to control your breathing so that in the event you may begin to feel panicky again you can easily implement this technique and prevent an attack from actually occurring.

When seeking tips to prevent panic attacks it is also important to look at ways in which you can nurture yourself and reduce the amount of stress in your life. Stress can often lead to feelings of panic that can turn into panic attacks. Consider these options:

* Make sure you are getting enough sleep.
* Exercise on a regular basis to relieve tension and provide an outlet for stress
* Read a good book
* Eliminate or reduce caffeine, including cola, coffee and tea-caffeine serves as a stimulant and can make you feel even more anxious
* Take part in regular massage to relieve tension
* Eliminate or reduce intake of alcohol and tobacco
* Avoid use of recreational drugs
* Eat nutritious meals, including breakfast

Other tips to prevent panic attacks include looking at ways in which you can find time to do things you enjoy and get away from the stress of everyday life activities. Of course, this will vary from one person to the next depending on your preferences, but any activity that helps you to forget the stress of everyday life, calm you and focus on what is important is good. Excellent ideas include:

* Listen to music
* Perform volunteer work
* Start a hobby
* Meditate or pray
* Take a bubble bath
* Make a point to socialize with positive people
* Go for a walk

Many people often find that journaling can be an excellent way to put things into perspective, especially those things which concern them and could result in a panic attack. Journaling can also help to keep you organized, which can in turn reduce stress levels. You may consider keeping lists in your journal or simply describing how you feel about stressful situations in your life and then coming back later to evaluate your responses and determine whether they are appropriate to the situation.