I can offer general guidance on how therapists often manage patients experiencing panic attacks during a session.
Therapists are trained to handle situations like panic attacks and prioritize the safety and well-being of their patients. Here are some general steps therapists may take if a patient experiences a panic attack during a session:
Recognize the Signs: Therapists are trained to identify the physical and emotional signs of a panic attack, such as rapid breathing, increased heart rate, sweating, trembling, and feelings of intense fear or dread.
Remain Calm and Reassuring: Therapists should stay calm and composed during the panic attack. Their composed demeanor can help the patient feel safer and more supported.
Create a Safe Space: Ensure that the therapy room is a safe and comfortable environment. Offer the patient reassurance that they are in a secure place and that the panic attack will pass.
Encourage Grounding Techniques: Encourage the patient to focus on the present moment and use grounding techniques to help manage the panic attack. Grounding techniques may involve focusing on their breath, noticing objects in the room, or repeating a calming phrase.
Validate and Normalize: Let the patient know that panic attacks are a common response to anxiety and that they are not alone in experiencing this. Validating their feelings can help them feel understood and accepted.
Offer Breathing Exercises: Guiding the patient through deep breathing exercises can help regulate their breathing and reduce the intensity of the panic attack.
Implement Relaxation Techniques: If the patient has previously learned relaxation techniques, such as progressive muscle relaxation, these can be employed during the session.
Explore Triggers and Coping Strategies: After the panic attack has subsided, explore with the patient what triggered the episode and discuss coping strategies they can use if similar situations arise in the future.
Review Safety Plan: If the patient has a pre-established safety plan, review it together. If not, consider creating one to address future panic attacks or emotional crises.
Refer if Necessary: If panic attacks are a recurring issue or are significantly impacting the patient's daily life, the therapist may consider referring the patient to a mental health specialist or psychiatrist for further evaluation and treatment.
It's important to remember that each individual is different, and the specific approach may vary based on the patient's needs and therapeutic approach. Therapists prioritize fostering a safe and trusting therapeutic relationship, which can help patients feel more comfortable discussing their experiences and emotions, including panic attacks.