How To Deal With Panic Attack Victims - First Aid Tips

If I believe that a person is having a panic attack, what ought I to do?

Talk to the person and try to work out if they have any insight into what is occuring. Ask them whether they had ever had a panic attack, like this, ever before. If they reply in a way that suggests that this is a frequent event, then you need to try and calm them down, in both physical and psychological sense.

Don’t forget to first introduced yourself.

If you are not sure whether the person is having a panic attack or a heart attack - then what do you do?

This is a tough one as the differences between a panic attack and more serious disorders are often minor. You will need to take a view, however, and there is no real way to be sure without specialist tests.

If you are uncertain, then follow the basic first aid principles, that is airway, breathing, circulation. Have a look for any medic alert bracelets. Obviously, heed any advice given by the alert. You may well need to call the medics sooner than you might otherwise do.

OK - but if they are having a panic attack - then what do I do?

Firstly you must stay calm. Try to get one or two key ideas across, with the words that you use. Reassure the person that they will be fine and try to explain to them what is happening. Ask them what they think may help them. Try to empower them and get them to feel strong and not small. Being frightened can be life saving.

Sadly, it is sometimes scary in inopportune times, which will lead to people feeling less resourceful and helped.