Panic attack kit
Panic attacks happen when a person is distressed, overwhelmed or also not prepared for a situation. Triggers like invalidation, stress and timelines are also a cause that adds to panic attacks. Watching a person going through such an attack that includes symptoms like sweating, increased heartbeat, loss of balance, heavy breathing is equally distressing for people around. This post is also useful for education institutes and workplaces where relief is provided to the distressed person if a kit is ready.
Most of you are aware of the 54321 grounding technique :
Name 5 things you see
Name 4 things you hear
Name 3 things you taste
Name 2 things you smell
Name 1 thing you can touch
The above can also be instructed to the person or even remotely via a phone call.
But, a kit will highly help where you can keep such a pack ready in case you know that a person is prone to panic attacks or if you have experienced a nervous student during the exam or a workplace situation.
Sight :
Arrange a few favourite pictures usually calming scenary. You may also show them their favorite color on a screen. If the person is prone to such attacks, you can keep a large picture of a flower or landscape having that particular color/colors. Avoid showing images of people as it might disturb them.
Sound:
Let them listen to the sound of ocean waves, waterfall or instrumental music that is meditative. It offers distraction and helps them relieve their anxiety. This can easily be played over a mobile. If you are aware of their favourite song, you may play the same. Caregivers may keep the playlist handy.
Taste :
You may keep ready in the kit some hard-boiled candy, a piece of chocolate that is chewy, salted crackers/wafers or a salty-sugary drink (ORS) is good too.
Smell :
This is a sensitive area as smells may also trigger a distress or allergy. If you know the person’s favorite perfume or if you find it in their drawer or bag, do use them. Or else this may be skipped.
Touch :
In the kit, you may pack various textures like sand paper, velvet cloth, muslin, silk, a piece of wood e.g. pencil, clay or metal piece. Ask them to clutch the same for some time.
Encourage the person to carry such a kit in their handbag to relieve themselves of a panic attack. This also gives them confidence. Alternatively, workplaces and educational institutions may also do the same in case a counsellor is not available of call. The grounding technique 54321 is also effective.
