A racing heart, difficulty breathing, and a feeling of impending doom—these are common signs of an anxiety attack. For those who have experienced one, it can be a terrifying and overwhelming experience. Anxiety attacks, also known as panic attacks, can happen suddenly and without warning, but they are not random occurrences. Understanding the triggers and signs of an anxiety attack is key to managing this mental health condition.
Having the support of mental health professionals can help you develop coping mechanisms and find treatment options that work for you. Northeast Health Services offers anxiety treatment in Massachusetts that can provide you with the support and care you need. Call 508.794.8711 today to get started.
What Are Anxiety Attacks?
Anxiety attacks, also referred to as panic attacks, are sudden episodes of intense fear and discomfort that can peak within minutes. These episodes can happen when there’s no real threat present, or the perceived danger is out of proportion to the situation at hand. They can occur during sleep and can be so severe that a person may believe they are having a heart attack or other life-threatening illness.
The exact cause of anxiety attacks is unknown, but it’s believed that a combination of factors may contribute. These may include genetics, stressful or traumatic events, and underlying medical or mental health issues. Certain life situations, such as significant life changes, financial stress, or the death of a loved one, can also trigger anxiety attacks.
The brain plays a crucial role in these episodes. Scientists believe that areas of the brain responsible for the fear response may play a role in anxiety attacks. During an attack, the body’s fight-or-flight response kicks in, leading to symptoms like a rapid heartbeat, shortness of breath, trembling, and a strong desire to escape the situation. Despite the intensity of the symptoms, anxiety attacks are not life-threatening. However, recurring attacks can significantly impact quality of life.
Signs of an Anxiety Attack
Anxiety attacks can manifest in different ways for each person. While some may experience all the common symptoms, others may only have a few. Some of the signs to look out for include:
- Shortness of breath or hyperventilation
- Chest pain or discomfort
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
- Sweating or chills
- Nausea or stomach pain
- Feeling of impending doom or losing control
- Rapid heartbeat or palpitations
- Tingling sensations in the body
If you experience any of these symptoms and they are severe, persistent, and interfere with your daily life, it’s essential to seek help from a mental health professional. They can help determine if you’re experiencing an anxiety attack or if there may be other underlying issues contributing to your symptoms.
How Treatment Can Help
Anxiety attacks can be treated with therapy, medication, or a combination of both. Therapy can help identify and address the root causes of your anxiety attacks, develop coping mechanisms, and provide support in managing symptoms. Medication can also help alleviate the severity and frequency of anxiety attacks. A combination of these treatments can provide the best results for managing and reducing anxiety attacks.
In addition to professional treatment, self-care practices such as mindfulness, exercise, and stress management techniques can also help prevent and manage anxiety attacks. It’s essential to make your mental health a priority and seek support from loved ones during this journey.
Contact Northeast Health Services for Anxiety Treatment
If you or a loved one is struggling with anxiety attacks, Northeast Health Services can provide the support and care you need. Our team of mental health professionals specializes in anxiety treatment in Massachusetts and can work with you to develop a personalized treatment plan that meets your unique needs. Don’t suffer alone; reach out for help today by calling 508.794.8711 or by reaching out online. For new clients, please click here to schedule an appointment, and for existing clients, please click here and find your office location to contact your office directly.