- Why do we find it so difficult to control anxiety?
- What triggers an anxiety attack, both emotionally and physically?
- What are the first symptoms?
- Can an anxiety attack be prevented?
- If we start to notice the first symptoms, what should we do?
- Are the symptoms the same for everyone? In other words, if we've had one anxiety attack, should we look for the same symptoms to detect a second one?
- What should we never do if we are having an anxiety attack?
- What should I do to avoid self-harm when I have an anxiety attack?
- How can we help someone having an anxiety attack? Should we give them space, or should we hug and comfort them?
- Can everyone have an anxiety attack, or are some people more prone to it?
- What guidelines do you give to prevent anxiety attacks?
- Are the symptoms of an anxiety attack in children different from those in adults?
- What tools can we apply during an anxiety crisis manifested by stomach pain, vomiting, or crying that can cause a rapid mood improvement in a 12-year-old adolescent girl?
- Is there a phrase or keyword that can help someone experiencing a crisis? If we agree on that phrase or word with them beforehand, can it help?
- Which people are more likely to experience anxiety before an exam or a job interview?
- Can an anxiety attack cause a rise in blood pressure?
- If we have persistent anxiety attacks over time, can we develop heart problems?
- Can an anxiety attack be masking a physical ailment? How can we tell if physical pain is truly caused by anxiety?
- In the event of an anxiety attack during a game or sporting competition, how should the coaches act?
- What is the relationship between anxiety and social phobia?
- As nurses, how can we help in an anxiety crisis?
- Often we're tempted to intervene, but sometimes less is more... And I understand that someone experiencing an anxiety attack also needs their space. What do you recommend not doing? What mistakes do you think healthcare professionals make most frequently?
- How can we manage an anxiety attack in the 10 or 12 minutes we have available in a consultation to see patients? Are there any express tools for professional support and help?
How can we manage an anxiety attack in the 10 or 12 minutes we have available in a consultation to see patients? Are there any express tools for professional support and help?
Healthcare professionals are increasingly encountering situations in which the person being treated presents a high level of anxiety in the outpatient consultation or emergency department, or, in many cases, a frank anxiety crisis.
In these situations, it is crucial to maintain and convey calm, control, and a sense of security. The person should feel supported at all times to promote their safety, while also allowing them to have their own personal space.
It is important to try to condition the space (ventilate it, avoid noise) or, if necessary or possible, move the person to a better-conditioned space.
The person being attended to should be comfortable, sitting properly or lying down.
This should be accompanied by simple words or phrases that help guide a short abdominal breathing exercise to try and reduce anxiety levels. It's best to use a calm and clear tone of voice.
At this time it is important for the person to maintain a certain mental distraction that allows them to avoid negative thoughts, to be aware of the symptoms or sensations manifested by anxiety, so that the discomfort is reduced.
If necessary, fast-absorbing (sublingual) rescue anxiolytic treatment would be offered.
Once the discomfort or crisis has subsided, it is important to provide good support to the person, seeking specialized help in order to not only have more and better personal tools to prevent and manage potential anxiety crises, but also to understand and improve their mental health.
