How to Deal With the Panic Attacks Children Experience

When reviewing the panic attacks children suffer, it is important to distinguish between these attacks and panic disorders. Panic disorders are an anxiety disorder and are different in nature and severity. Panic attacks usually have identifiable symptoms that last for a short while, usually less than ten minutes. The symptoms of panic attacks usually subside without the need for outside interference and does not require accelerated treatment.

Children may not be able to understand what the symptoms of an attack mean. They may not be able to even explain the symptoms. They may be afraid that they are unwell, but would not associate symptoms with a heart attack, for example. If you are able to observe the attack while it is going on, you will be better able to deal with the symptoms so that you can offer appropriate help.

Some of the panic attack symptoms in children might be shortness of breath, hot or cold temperature, fear, dizziness, racing heart rate, trembling, nausea, or sweating. The symptoms are the bodies unconscious response to extreme danger. It is commonly known as flight or fight and may occur whether the danger is real or only perceived.

It is interesting that in panic attacks children may think that the cause is some particular outside event. For example, seeing a big dog and being afraid of the dog is linked to the intense fear they feel. The attacks can be related also to worry. The worry might be about grades or an upcoming stressful event that the child feels powerless to control. This can trigger an attack.

What is the best way to deal with the panic attacks children experience? The immediate action should be to provide comfort and reassurance. Physical holding and soothing words to let the child understand that they are okay is the immediate need. Parents who do not know for certain what is happening can be frightened, but must stay calm in order to help the child.

The parents needs to provide an image of centered support to the child. Do not react in an out of control manner, as this will make the situation worse. The attacks are usually only a few minutes in duration, so physical contact and sitting quietly will be of more help than calling for emergency services.

Once the immediate event is over, the parent needs to find out the underlying problem. Sometimes the child may not know what is actually bothering them. The parent might need to do a little digging or gentle questioning to determine that the child is worried about grades or about another child who is a bully.

While taking action to resolve panic attacks children have, parents have an excellent opportunity to model behavior that is appropriate for dealing with problems. Telling your child to quit worrying is not nearly as effective as showing the child how to deal with situations that are difficult to control. For instance if it is the school bully that is causing your child the grief then they need to be identified as a cause and reported to the school officials. Reassuring a child who is worried about grades might mean that letting them know that your love for them does not depend on an examination grade.