A panic attack is a sudden overwhelm of intense feelings of anxiety and fear. There may be no obvious trigger and they can happen anywhere. They may be noticeable due to external symptoms such as:
- Feeling unable to breathe or hyperventilation
- Feeling shaky
- Tightness or chest pain
- Feeling stuck (can’t move)
- Feeling sick
- Stomach cramps
- Heart palpitations
- Feeling faint/ fainting
- Wobbly legs
- Everything feels brighter, louder, more intense.
- Everything feels far away
- Feeling like you’re about to die
Panic attacks can be extremely distressing and frightening for the child and young person and for adults around them to witness.
For further information on Panick Attacks please see the following links:
Panic disorder – NHS (www.nhs.uk)
What is a panic attack? | Mind, the mental health charity – help for mental health problems
