My husband has started suffering panic attacks. They're steadily getting worse, to the point he's been sent home from work today. What can I do to help him? He's very reluctant to see a doctor as he doesn't think it will help him. He suffered panic attacks in his late teens and the doctors took bloods and did little else. Thanks everyone.
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Consider self-soothing or self-help relaxation techniques such as mindful breathing to help ease the panic. Something like the Headspace App could be useful.
Aside from that it may take some more gentle encouragement to consider going to his GP if things worsen or a self-referal to local IAPT service for some professional support.
Aside from that it may take some more gentle encouragement to consider going to his GP if things worsen or a self-referal to local IAPT service for some professional support.
Yes, he could self refer to IAPT doesn’t have to go through his GP. Otherwise suggest some guided self help. https://nopanic.org.uk/ have some good advice/resources
My husband suffered the same a year or so ago. He saw his GP, was given medication and signed off for 6 weeks....work were amazing and helped him access therapy (CBT) which worked so well. He's now off the meds and has been so much better - anxiety still happens but he manages it.
I think GP would be helpful in the short term - give him some time to manage it and either the GP can refer him for therapy or he can self refer. My husband ignored his anxiety for years and it ultimately ended in panic attacks and being quite unwell so its good to tackle it asap.
He uses the Headspace app a lot too which he found brilliant for calming him and destressing - worth trying it on the free trial - doesn't suit everyone (I hate it!) but worth a shot.
I think GP would be helpful in the short term - give him some time to manage it and either the GP can refer him for therapy or he can self refer. My husband ignored his anxiety for years and it ultimately ended in panic attacks and being quite unwell so its good to tackle it asap.
He uses the Headspace app a lot too which he found brilliant for calming him and destressing - worth trying it on the free trial - doesn't suit everyone (I hate it!) but worth a shot.
Does he know what’s causing or triggering them? Is something going on?
Thanks all for your helpful advice, much appreciated. There doesn't seem to be a trigger he can pinpoint. I think it's all the small things (work, kids, pandemic) adding together.