When we think of panic attacks, we would not usually associate them with children, but children's panic attacks are just as real as those in adolescents and adults. It's not surprising that in children suffer with anxiety and panic attacks in a modern world full of stress and pressures. Often children are unable to cope with the stress and anxieties that are put upon them. As a result of this, anxiety disorders and panic attacks are one of the most common mental health issues affecting our children today. Panic attacks and anxiety attacks go hand in hand. The most common anxiety related panic attacks suffered by children is GAD, which stands for Generalised Anxiety Disorder. In children it is usually due to excessive worrying. They may worry about everyday events, and events that will take place sometime in the future. Health may be a worry, performance at school, performance in after school activities, and friendships etc. Often children will worry so much that it interferes with their daily lives and they may find it a problem sleeping which in turn creates other health problems.
Children, adolescents and adults with a panic attack disorder have unexpected and repeated periods of intense fear or discomfort, along with other symptoms such as a racing heartbeat or feeling short of breath. These periods are called "panic attacks" and last minutes to hours. They frequently develop without warning.
What should you do during an attack ?It is best to accept that the panic attack is embarrassing and unpleasant. It is best not to try and fight it but to accept that it is happening. If you try and fight it you may become more fearful and feel more out of control and this could make the attack worse. Try to remember that it will finish and it won't kill you.
Panic Attacks are a common and treatable disorder, so do not despair. Modern techniques are available as long as you know where to look. It's not advisable to treat these conditions with drugs until you have investigated all the other possible treatments. Drugs always carry a risk of unpleasant side effects, so beware. New treatments for childrens panic attacks are available right now.
