It's understandable that you may feel overwhelmed and unsure about how to comfort your mom during her panic attacks. Here are some suggestions on how you can support her:
Educate Yourself: Learn more about anxiety and panic attacks to better understand what your mom is going through. Understanding the symptoms and triggers can help you respond more effectively.
Stay Calm: It's natural to feel concerned when someone you care about is in distress, but try to remain as calm as possible. Your mom can pick up on your emotions, and staying composed can help create a more supportive environment.
Be Present and Listen: Let your mom know that you are there for her and that she can talk to you about her feelings. Sometimes, just having someone to listen to can be incredibly comforting.
Encourage Deep Breathing: During a panic attack, breathing exercises can help your mom regain control. Encourage her to take slow, deep breaths to help regulate her breathing.
Use Grounding Techniques: Grounding exercises can help bring focus back to the present moment and reduce feelings of panic. You can suggest simple techniques like counting objects in the room or describing what she sees, hears, or feels.
Create a Safe Environment: Find a quiet and comfortable space where your mom can sit or lie down during a panic attack. Removing unnecessary stimuli may help her feel more at ease.
Offer Physical Comfort: If your mom is open to it, a gentle touch or hug may provide comfort and reassurance. However, always ask for permission before touching, as some individuals may not feel comfortable with physical contact during a panic attack.
Avoid Minimizing or Invalidating Her Feelings: Avoid phrases like "just relax" or "it's not a big deal." Instead, validate her emotions by saying things like "I'm here for you" or "it's okay to feel this way."
Help Her Seek Professional Support: Encourage your mom to seek help from a mental health professional, such as a psychiatrist or psychologist. They can provide appropriate treatment and support for her anxiety.
Take Care of Yourself: Supporting someone with anxiety can be emotionally taxing. Make sure you also take care of yourself and seek support from other family members, friends, or a support group if needed.
Remember, you don't need to have all the answers, and it's okay to seek outside help if you feel overwhelmed. Encouraging your mom to connect with mental health professionals can be a vital step in helping her manage her anxiety. Your support and care can make a significant difference, but ultimately, a trained professional may be best equipped to address her specific needs.