It is normal to feel anxious in certain situations, but if feelings of anxiety persist
when there is no reason to feel fear, or if the anxiety becomes overwhelming or causes you to restrict your life, it is time to seek professional help.
A panic attack is a period of intense fear or discomfort where four or more of the
following symptoms are experienced:*
*Any of the following symptoms may indicate a need for immediate medical assistance:
- Pounding heart or accelerated heart rate
- Sweating
- Trembling or shaking
- Shortness of breath or a smothering sensation
- Feeling of choking
- Chest pain or discomfort
- Nausea or abdominal distress
- Feeling dizzy, unsteady, lightheaded or faint
- Feelings of being detached from yourself
- Fear of losing control or going crazy
- Fear of dying
- Numbness or tingling sensations
- Chills or hot flushes
Fear of having panic attacks can lead to a condition known as Agoraphobia: persistent fears of being in certain places or situations such as leaving your home, being in a crowd, or riding in a bus, plane or car. This condition causes people to unnecessarily restrict their life.
If you notice the preceding symptoms in yourself or in a loved one, call your
Employee Assistance Program to speak with a professional counselor.
Help is available. It’s free. It’s confidential. It’s for you.
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