Panic attacks can be frightening, especially for children. It can be devastating to witness your child experience a panic attack. They may feel they’re losing control or that their life is being threatened. Panic attacks are a type of anxiety disorder. They can be triggered by specific things or occur suddenly for no reason.
Signs of a panic attack:
- Feeling of imminent danger
- Rapid heartbeat
- Sweating
- Trembling
- Shortness of breath
- Feeling of choking
- Tingling sensations
- Chest pain or discomfort
- Nausea
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
- Sense of things being unreal
- Fear of “going crazy”
- Fear of dying
- Chills or hot flushes
Suggestions for helping your child during a panic attack:
- Avoid minimizing their distress
Practice empathy. Don’t say, “You are ok”. They don’t feel OK. Say, “Having a panic attack is scary. I’m here for you”.
- Remind them that panic attacks end
Panic attacks feel like they last forever, but they usually last 10-15 minutes. Educate them on signs they are going to have one, so they can understand what is happening.
- Deep breathing
Teach them deep breathing, slowly in through the nose, slowly out through the mouth with pursed lips. Remind them to practice deep breathing.
- Distract them
During a panic attack, distract your child with activities such as exercise, taking a walk, playing a game, eating a snack, listening to music, taking a bath, or watching a favorite TV show.
- Teach them not to avoid things that cause them anxiety
Your child may try to avoid activities and situations that may trigger another attack. Teach them avoiding these things can cause anxiety to become worse and it’s important for them to face their fears.
“Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.” 1 Peter 5:7
Pray for your child:
“Lord, You know my child struggles with panic attacks. It is scary for them. Please bless them with peace and rest in their soul and remove anxiety from their heart and mind. May they find peace in you and your unconditional love. If they have another panic attack, help me to comfort them through it. Please give me the peace and strength I need to support them. Thank you ahead of time for using me to help my child. In Jesus name, Amen.”
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