Posts Tagged ‘phobia’

Controlling Panic Attacks With Breathing Exercises

Monday, May 31st, 2010

When put in uncomfortable social situations, Controlling Panic Attacks might seem impossible for a social anxiety sufferer. The treatments available include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and antidepressants, although unconventional methods such as self-help, acupuncture and hypnotherapy may also be considered. It’s usual to be a bit nervous in social settings. For instance, at a party, taking a test and interviewing for a job. For social anxiety sufferers however, these situations can be extremely hard to cope with.

These situations are likely to trigger Anxiety Symptoms which could lead to panic. Signs of anxiety can show such as; stammering, sweating, speaking fast, fidgeting and avoiding eye contact. In most cases, adult social anxiety develops from negative childhood occurrences. Seemingly harmless to people who don’t suffer this disorder, for sufferers it can have huge negative effct on their lives.

In fact, it can have a serious impact to one’s happiness and success. Success in daily life is affected by confidence and assertiveness which sufferers often lack. Children with social anxiety often underachieve at school and this pattern can continue to adult life. Growing up into adults they might let opportunities slip by.

Diagnosed cases of social anxiety disorder are either treated with medication or therapy, or a combination of both. While it’s recommended to seek professional help, making lifestyle changes and applying self-help techniques are also effective at reducing anxiety and Coping With Panic Attacks. Constant thoughts of worry and too much self-conscious thinking can spark anxiety symptoms. Stepping into a room that doesn’t have single familiar face can create feelings of isolation and embarrassment, causing irrational thoughts of worry and dread. Of course this can only trigger one thing, anxiety.

Social anxiety often spirals out of control from a single thought of worry which then trigger sensations and more worry. Obsessive negative thoughts can be reconditioned or reduced over time, which can help relieve social anxiety dramatically. Using visualization techniques and positive statements can help do this. You can build self confidence and assertiveness by going out and doing things that may put you at a little unease.

Expand your horizons by developing your inner-self through self help books. Confidence is a habit that can be learnt. Direct your attention to others needs instead of your own. Relax and feel at ease in your own skin by realizing that the world doesn’t revolve around you. Try and meet with friends more often and communicate with people more at work. Think of something that’s interested you and go out and do it.

Stop yourself from thoughts of worry and self-criticism. Breathing and meditation exercises help in calming the body and mind and reducing stress. Take action and don’t just let stress and anxiety build up by ignoring it. Breath control is a simple method in countering feelings or anxiety and controlling panic attacks.

A relatively unheard self help technique, EFT has shown potential in controlling panic attacks. Emotional Freedom Technique treats energy imbalances in the body and deals with harmful thoughts through positive language. This is done by tapping on acupuncture points on the body. Social anxiety is a challenging disorder to overcome but by gradually chipping at the wall, you can break down any barrier in your life.