Was It a Panic Attack?

 

 

If you use an “I can take it” approach to managing stress, you may be building cumulative stress, especially if you don’t exercise, get a break from work, or seek balance with some fun.

A fast-paced, high stress society with conflicting work and family demands, combined with greater financial risk and insecurity about the future, may make your body respond with anxiety or panic-like symptoms.

The term “panic attack” can conjure up an image of extreme agitation or franticness. Although many people with anxiety and panic symptoms experience this type of attack, many do not.

Instead they suffer a host of disturbing and puzzling, but less acute, symptoms such as heart palpitations, sleep disturbances, rashes, breathing difficulties, or other problems. There are dozens of symptoms related to panic and anxiety.

Discovering the cause may not happen until an acute attack forces you to seek medical attention. Prevention of anxiety and panic symptoms is not a test of your willpower.

Instead, learn about panic and anxiety symptoms from your doctor, employee assistance professional (EAP), or health care provider.

A quick search on the Internet will lead you to many sources, but be cautious of scam “cures” and misinformation on Web sites.

The leading organization for information is the nonprofit Anxiety Disorders Association of America at www.adaa.org.

From February 2008 Newsletter

Important Notice: Information in FrontLine Employee is for general information purposes only and is not intended to replace the counsel or advice of a qualified health professional. For further
help, questions, or referral to community resources for specific problems or personal concerns, contact your employee assistance professional.