Panic attacks can come on suddenly and without warning, leaving a person feeling overwhelmed and unsure of what to do. Do you know what to say to someone experiencing one?
There are many ways to support someone during these difficult moments. The next time you encounter someone having a panic attack, try offering one of these calming and reassuring statements:
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“Close your eyes and focus on your breathing.”
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Encourages the person to shift their attention away from panicked thoughts.
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“Take a deep breath and count to ten.”
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Engages their mind in a simple task, helping to distract them from fear.
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“Do you remember the last time this happened? You got through it, and this will pass too.”
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Reminds them of their resilience and that the panic attack is temporary.
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“Squeeze my hand. Feel the pressure and focus on it.”
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Provides a physical anchor, reassuring them that they are not alone.
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Everyone experiences anxiety and panic differently, and there’s no single “right” thing to say. However, we hope these suggestions give you some insight into how to support someone in distress. Sometimes, simply being there and offering reassurance can make all the difference.
