Everyone can get a panic attack anywhere. Whether you are at home, in public, or at a store, panic attacks come randomly and its really hard to cope up with it when you're in the situation. It will give confuse you and will make your heart beat faster than ever. But you know what's worse with panic attacks? Having it while you're in front or with your children.
Handling a panic attack as a parent can be really tough to handle. When you're around your children and you suddenly feel an uneasy, nervous feeling in your chest, you might feel confused about what you should do. The first thing that will come to your mind might be what your children will feel when they see you are panicking. They will also feel panic when they see their parent's worry and will only make the situation a lot worse to handle.
So, when parents experience a panic attack in front of their children, the main question would be: how should parents handle a panic attack?
According to Melissa Divaris Thompson, a licensed marriage and family therapist in New York City, the key to coping up with a panic attack in the presence of your children is preparation. As parents, you need to be prepared on whatever situation you and your children will be put into.
According to Thompson, it is important for parents to practice self-care on a regular basis. For most people, they tend to think that self-care should only be done at times of crisis. However, finding the things that make you feel that you are at peace and in balance will help you prioritize what needs to be put first. Some people tend to do meditation and relaxation such as massages and yoga to keep them sane and mentally and emotionally healthy. The whole point of self-care is finding something that works for you and your peace.
The main reason for panic attacks is anxiety. Whether you are anxious about something or there was something that made you feel anxious, the reason why you feel such feelings is because you might not be getting proper nutrition and sleep. Being restless and unhealthy triggers anxiety and can lead to more serious mental health disorder.
However, prioritizing self-care, sleep, and proper nutrition can be tougher and more tricky to do when you're a parent. It might sound nearly impossible to have all three. With all the preparation and planning for your family and children, it's not new for a parent to feel anxious from time to time. If you're having panic and anxiety attacks while you're looking after your family and children, the last thing that you could do is show it to them.
To cope up with panic attacks when your children are around, you need to:
Take deep breaths and let your system regulate their own body. If it's possible, you can always take a break.
Always make sure that your children are in good hands. If you're experiencing a panic attack while holding your baby or if your child is beside you, you can always leave them to your partner and then take a glass of water and breathe deeply. When you take a break, just make sure your children are in safe hands and supervision.
If your children have already sensed that there is something wrong going on with you, let them rub your hand or back. Children also feel concerned about their parents when they see the worry on their faces, so let them ease your worries.
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