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Step 1
See your doctor or go to the emergency room. In many cases, this is the only way to be sure that what you are experiencing is a panic attack and not a more serious condition. A doctor can give you something that will ease the panic almost immediately.
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Step 2
Call your insurance company to find out your benefits for mental health services. Get a referral to a psychiatrist, or find out if you need one from your doctor.
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Step 3
Take medication. Treatment with antidepressants can sometimes entirely eliminate panic attacks and lessen the fear of having another panic attack, which can lead to secondary anxiety. Other medications need only be taken when you are having an attack, but most of these are habit forming.
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Step 4
Get therapy to try to discover the root cause of the panic attacks. Counselors, social workers, psychologists and psychiatrists are all trained to help patients cope with panic.
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Step 5
Talk to your friends and family. Panic disorder is nothing to be ashamed of and chances are good that someone you know has also experienced a panic attack. People who've recovered can be a valuable resource on treatment in your area.
