Panic Attacks
A surprising number of people suffer panic attacks. It is a relatively common condition - so, if you suffer from panic attacks - don't think you are alone. Panic attacks can sometimes be caused by something specific, a fear of flying, for instance, or they can occur without any apparent reason.
The defining feature of a panic attack is a sudden onset of extreme fear or terror, accompanied by rapid pulse and breathing. They are often accompanied by dramatic physical symptoms which can lead sufferers to believe they are having a heart attack, or may be about to die. You may suffer tightness of breath, pain, dizziness, sweating or palpitations.
However, a panic attack is not, of itself, dangerous. What is happening is that the unconscious mind, that primitive part of our brain given the job of protecting us in times of danger, is kicking in with the 'fight or flight' response. This causes a sudden massive increase in the stress hormones adrenaline and cortisol, raising our pulse rate and breathing, and instigating a cascade of frightening physical symptoms. It is the body's primitive way of putting you in 'emergency mode', and preparing you for flight.
Panic attacks can affect all ages, and both genders. Often sufferers are embarrassed about their attacks, believing it to be a kind of weakness. Let me state firmly now, that suffering panic attacks has nothing whatever to do with 'being weak', or lacking in willpower or control. It is simply a straightforward condition whereby the unconscious mind is prompting a response at an inappropriate time. It is not a sign of mental illness.
Panic attacks, like anxiety, are very amenable to hypnotherapy, and relief can often be obtained quite quickly. The important thing to remember is not to be afraid of the fear. Panic attacks are transient, they will pass. Hypnotherapy enables the therapist to access that part of the mind that is prompting the inappropriate response, and to modify its response. Hypnotherapy will also remove the fear attached to these attacks, and understanding the process helps the client to be less afraid, and to regain control.
Unfortunately willpower alone does not usually cure panic attacks. The fight or flight response is supposed to overrule all conscious thought, so it must be tackled through the unconscious mind. But if you do suffer these frightening attacks, know that you are not going mad, and that truly effective help is available with hypnotherapy.
Contact Information:
Phone: 0117 961 1057
email:
info@twocitieshypnotherapy.com
