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How can we help someone having an anxiety attack? Should we give them space, or should we hug and comfort them?

Silvia Rosado Figuerola
Sílvia Rosado Figuerola
Mental Health Nurse Specialist. Anxiety Unit
Parc de Salut Mar

First, we must understand that an attack is unpleasant but not dangerous, so we shouldn't panic. We should remain calm and simply be there for the person, offering them whatever they need. For example, you can remind them that the sensations are unpleasant but not dangerous, that it will only last a while and the anxiety will subside, and that you are there for them. Some people will ask for physical contact, others will want to be left alone. At that moment, it's important to respect their needs, and once the attack has passed, you can talk about what happened. It doesn't help to be overprotective, but neither does being too rigid or forcing the person to act in a certain way.

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Manel Montserrat
Manel Montserrat Martínez
Mental Health Nurse Specialist. Adult Mental Health Center. Esplugues de Llobregat
Parc Sanitari Sant Joan de Déu
Silvia Rosado Figuerola
Sílvia Rosado Figuerola
Mental Health Nurse Specialist. Anxiety Unit
Parc de Salut Mar