What should I do if I am having a panic attack?

A panic attack is a sharp and severe peak of anxiety which happens suddenly often in response to a physical or psychological threat, although sometimes it seems to happen at random with no obvious trigger. Symptoms can include racing heart, faster breathing, sweating, tense muscles, dry mouth, churning stomach, it can feel life-threatening but rest assured it lasts a short time (5-10 minutes) but can leave you feeling exhausted. 

If you experience a panic attack, try to remain where you are if possible and breathe slowly and deeply. Remind yourself that the attack will pass and is not life-threatening. 

Our new service Thrivewell are a mental health and emotional wellbeing service which can help with a range of low level issues including anxiety, low mood and exam stress. You can contact Thrivewell via our email; thrivewell@surrey.ac.uk.

If you feel you require a higher level of support for your mental health, The Centre for Wellbeing can support you with a range of issues through counselling or support from a Mental Health Practitioner. You can contact us today via email.