How to Stop an Anxiety Attack Naturally

Anxiety is common in humans. But, when it exceeds the normal limits, anxiety may transform to anxiety attacks and a wide range of other such disorders. Studies show that anxiety attacks are common and women are more prone to this condition, as compared to men. This condition is characterized by abnormal fear and anxiety and can cause both physical as well as psychological symptoms. This condition can be annoying as well as scary, as they mimic various other conditions like heart attack and nervous breakdown. Even though, there are medication that can be used for countering this condition, it is always better to try natural methods. Medication may be addictive and may also lead to undesirable side effects.

Treatment

Anxiety attacks are getting increasingly common and having a basic idea about countering this condition with natural methods may prove useful for you. As mentioned above, the condition may cause various symptoms like palpitations, chest pain, nausea, dizziness, shortness of breath, sweating, trembling and shaking, numbness of hands and feet, stomach upset, choking sensation in the chest, irritability, difficulty concentrating and restlessness. While it is a fact that this condition can mimic other health problems like heart attack, it may also happen vice versa. So, you must consult your doctor and rule out the possibility of other health conditions that may cause similar symptoms. It has also been noticed that anxiety attack symptoms, their onset, duration and triggers, may vary from one person to another. But generally, there will be an underlying and persistent fear, that is not ordinarily seen in normal people.

Once it is diagnosed that what you are experiencing is an anxiety attack, you have to treat the condition. Treatment is decided on the basis of the disorder and the condition of the patient. But, this is a condition that cannot be treated with medication alone. A multi-pronged approach with behavioral therapy and medication, is found to be effective in tackling anxiety attacks. It has been observed that the symptoms can be relieved through natural methods too. In fact, natural methods are preferred to medication for anxiety attacks.

Tips to Stop an Anxiety Attack Naturally

As stated above, medication cannot be a long-term cure for anxiety attacks. A combination of medication and behavioral therapy is often recommended by experts. But, natural methods are found to go a long way.

• You can stop an anxiety attack on your own by controlling your breathing and staying calm. If you get frightened, the symptoms will get severe. Try slow and deep breathing that can calm you, within a few minutes.
• It will be always better to deviate your thoughts, when you feel the onset of anxiety attack symptoms. You may either watch TV or read a book or even talk to someone you love. This will help to reduce anxiety and the resulting symptoms.
• Cognitive behavior therapy as well as exposure therapy are two forms of behavioral therapy, which is found to be effective in tackling anxiety attacks naturally.
• If you think that there is something that triggers anxiety attacks, then avoid triggers. It could be anything like lack of sleep, severe stress or some food or beverage.
• So, try to get adequate sleep everyday and go for a balanced diet. Try meditation and other stress-relief techniques. Regular exercise is also found to be beneficial to stop an anxiety attack.
• As far as diet is concerned, caffeine is found to be a possible trigger. So, reduce intake of chocolates and coffee. Even excess sugar is said to be a contributory factor for anxiety attacks.
• It has also been suggested that vitamin C as well as Omega 3 fatty acids may be beneficial for those with this condition. Even magnesium-rich foods may prove good for them.

First of all, consult a health care provider and let him assess your situation. If it is mild to moderate, you may opt for natural methods to stop an anxiety attack. But, if the condition is severe, you have to strictly follow the instructions of your doctor, until it resolves. In such cases, you can follow these methods, along with the conventional treatment. In short, a healthy lifestyle with a balanced diet and regular exercise may prove useful in the long run.