A panic attack can bring a sudden rush of fear and very strong physical sensations. Even when someone has experienced panic before, the intensity can make it feel as though something serious is happening.
Commonly reported sensations include:
- a racing or pounding heart
- trembling or sweating
- dizziness or feeling faint
- chest discomfort
- breathlessness
- nausea
- tingling or numbness
- feeling detached or afraid of losing control
Rule out medical causes
Several medical conditions can cause similar symptoms. Do not diagnose yourself with panic when symptoms are new, changing, severe or unexplained.
Call 999 if you have sudden chest pain that does not go away, severe breathing difficulty, loss of consciousness or other symptoms that may be a medical emergency. For non-emergency concerns, speak to your GP or NHS 111.
Worrying about another attack
After a frightening episode, people sometimes become highly alert to bodily sensations or avoid places where they fear another attack might happen. This anticipation can become as disruptive as the original experience.
A GP or qualified mental-health professional can assess whether symptoms fit panic disorder and discuss appropriate treatment. NHS Talking Therapies also provides evidence-based psychological support.
Where hypnotherapy may fit
Hypnotherapy can help relieve anxiety. Sessions may support:
- general relaxation
- feeling less overwhelmed when thinking about a difficult situation
- confidence in using coping strategies recommended by an appropriate professional
- mental rehearsal of responding calmly to familiar sensations or situations
I work with anxiety, relaxation and confidence rather than diagnosing panic disorder. I will not promise that panic attacks must stop or predict a result within a set number of sessions.
An initial conversation
If the symptoms have been medically assessed and your goal concerns anxiety, confidence or relaxation, you are welcome to book an initial consultation. We can discuss what has been happening, the support you already have and whether hypnotherapy is a sensible addition.