Ok, what is the true definition of a panic attack (or panic attack DSM)?; A sudden and intense episode of overwhelming fear or anxiety that often strikes without warning. What thoughts go through a person’s mind during a panic attack?:
“I’m going to die”
“I’m losing control”
“This is all in my head”
“I need to escape”
“I’m not safe here”
“I can’t breathe”

What makes it worse on a plane when you have a panic attack, there is really no escape on the plane (you could try the restroom- right). I have only flown once in my lifetime so far. Thank God, I didn’t have anxiety back then as I do now. I was anxious enough because I am deftly afraid of heights. I stayed in my seat in the center aisle and didn’t move an inch the whole flight. Can you imagine thinking these thoughts while on a plane. Your panic attack will have a panic attack!

Signs and Symptoms

Symptoms of panic attacks, especially on planes, can vary from person to person, but some common signs and symptoms include:

• Rapid heartbeat or palpitations
• Shortness of breath or a feeling of smothering
• Sweating or chills
• Trembling or shaking
• Feelings of choking or tightness in the throat
• Chest pain or discomfort
• Nausea or abdominal distress
• Dizziness, lightheadedness, or feeling faint
• Fear of losing control or going crazy
• Fear of dying
• Numbness or tingling sensations

Panic Attack Social Anxiety

When a person experiences a panic attack in a social setting, it can reinforce their fear of social situations and lead to further avoidance. This avoidance can, in turn, exacerbate symptoms of social anxiety by limiting opportunities for exposure and learning that social situations are not always threatening.

Panic attacks and SAD can have a negative impact on relationships, work, and overall quality of life. It is essential to seek help from a mental health professional if you or someone you know is experiencing symptoms of panic attacks or social anxiety disorder. Treatments such as cognitive-behavioral therapy, exposure therapy, medication, and relaxation techniques may be helpful in managing symptoms and improving functioning.

If you have social anxiety and you got on the plane, I would praise you up and down. That is a huge step. To get somewhat over my social anxiety, I force myself into situations where I know will create some anxiety. Then, I learn how to deal with it (exposure therapy). You just have to plow through it, full steam ahead, to get past the anxiety and attacks.

Sleep Deprivation Panic Attack

Panic attacks can have a significant impact on sleep, both in terms of quantity and quality(especially on a plane). Many people who experience panic attacks may have difficulty falling asleep, staying asleep, or getting restful sleep due to recurring episodes of panic or anxiety during the night.

Here are some ways in which anxiety attacks can impact sleep:

Difficulty falling asleep: Anxiety attacks can create a general sense of arousal and anxiety, making it difficult to relax and fall asleep. Individuals may also experience racing thoughts or physical sensations that prevent them from falling asleep.

Nighttime awakenings: Some people may wake up during the night with episodes of panic or anxiety, which can disrupt their sleep and reduce overall sleep quality.

Nightmares: Panic attacks and anxiety can also increase the likelihood of nightmare-related sleep disturbances.

Hyperventilation: During an anxiety attack, an individual may experience rapid breathing and hyperventilation. This can cause dizziness, light-headedness, and even fainting, which can be particularly concerning during sleep.

Panic Attacks Around a Certain Person

Yes, panic attacks can occur around a certain person or in specific social situations. It is not uncommon for people with panic disorder to experience anxiety attacks when they are in close proximity to a person who seems to trigger their anxiety.

In some cases, the person triggering the anxiety attacks may be a family member, friend, or romantic partner, while in other cases, it may be a person in a position of authority, such as a boss or teacher. The perceived trigger may be the result of a past traumatic experience or a perceived threat, but the exact trigger can vary from person to person.

In addition to specific people, some people with panic disorder may experience panic attacks in social situations more generally. This can include situations like going to a party, speaking in front of a group, or using public transportation.

Anxiety attacks triggered by specific people or situations can be especially challenging because they create a sense of avoidance behavior in people. They may attempt to avoid social situations or specific people that have triggered panic attacks in the past, which can lead to isolation and further anxiety.

Panic Control Treatment

There are several effective treatments for anxiety attacks, including:

Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT): CBT is a type of therapy that can help individuals identify and change negative thought patterns and behaviors that contribute to anxiety attacks. CBT can help individuals develop coping strategies, relaxation techniques, and exposure therapy to effectively manage their panic symptoms.

Medications: Several types of medications can be used to treat anxiety attacks, including antidepressants and benzodiazepines. Antidepressants can help alleviate symptoms of anxiety and depression, while benzodiazepines are fast-acting medications that can help alleviate the physical symptoms of anxiety attacks.

Mindfulness: Mindfulness meditation and other mindfulness techniques can help individuals learn to focus their attention and manage their anxiety symptoms.

Breathing Techniques: Breathing exercises like diaphragmatic breathing can help individuals manage hyperventilation symptoms commonly associated with a panic attack.

Lifestyle changes: Changes to lifestyle factors like reducing caffeine intake, exercising regularly, improving sleep hygiene, and reducing alcohol and cigarette consumption may also help reduce symptoms of panic attacks.

Panic Attack Reddit

“Panic attack reddit” likely refers to discussions, stories, and information about panic attacks on the social media platform Reddit. Reddit is a popular online forum where people can share their experiences, ask questions, and seek support from others. There are several subreddits, or communities, related to mental health and wellness topics, including specific subreddits dedicated to panic attacks.

On these subreddits, people can find information about what panic attacks are, what causes them, and how to cope with them. Users can also share their stories and connect with others who have had similar experiences. Some subreddits also provide resources for getting professional help and seeking treatment for panic attacks.

I love Reddit, everybody is so forthcoming. If you’ve got a question, get it answered on Reddit by a group of likewise people. If your having anxiety on the plane, look up Reddit on the internet and someone just might give you the advice you’re looking for.

Conclusion

Who knows, I could get on a plane again and have a panic attack (I probably just jinxed myself). I just mean, with my anxiety today, I can’t even go out of my room without having some anxiety. In order to get over my anxiety of flying, I’d have to travel more than I currently do. I just have this image of the plane going down (I watch too many programs). Have you ever seen “Mayday” on YouTube? That’s what I watch. Anyway, I wanted to mention that if you have never been on Reddit, go on there sometime. You can share just about anything and nobody judges you for it. You will get advice and you will give advice. Well, I hope this was somewhat informative and I’m out of here…

Articles & Video

-Panic Attack Symptoms

https://www.webmd.com/anxiety-panic/panic-attack-symptoms

-Stopping Panic: What To Do When You’re Having a Panic Attack

https://www.psycom.net/when-panic-attacks-how-to-stop

-Having a Panic Attack?

Have a Good One,

Cindee Murphy, One Voice – Unstoppable

“You’re not alone!”