Louise is having a panic attack but she doesn’t know it yet. A panic attack can happen anywhere and at any moment. It is characterized by sudden, intense anxiety. You may experience a sense of impending doom or danger, fear of loss of control or fear of death.

You may also experience physical symptoms when you are having a panic attack. Louise has heart palpitations and feels a choking sensation. She has difficulty breathing and feels nauseous.

It can be difficult to know how to deal with a panic attack but there are strategies and tools that can help you. The “5-4-3-2-1” coping technique is a good grounding strategy to help you calm down.

This technique is quick and can be done anywhere. It helps you shift your attention away from your anxiety so you can regain control.

Name 5 things you can see;

Name 4 things you can touch;

Name 3 things you can hear;

Name 2 things you can smell;

Name 1 thing you are grateful for.

If you experience panic attacks and are unable to function in your daily life, you’re not alone and help is available.