• Talk to me to help keep me grounded. Once I'm lost in my thoughts it's harder to get out of the panic attack.
    • If possible, assist me to a safe spot.
    • Don't undermine my panic. Don't yell at me. Acknowledge it. Understand. Have empathy.
    • Don't ignore me because it's uncomfortable – remind me I'm safe and that I'm going to be ok.
    • Don't bring more attention to me! The more people who see the panic in my eyes, the more I panic. I just need space, room to breathe and understanding.
    • Distract me, talk about beautiful things.
    • Help me focus elsewhere. Show me things aren't deadly or threatening. Distract me without judgment.
    • Ask me if there's anything I need or anything you can do to help. If I say no, tell me you're there, I need you and that everything is going to be ok.
    • Stay by my side, don't make it a big deal. Breathe with me.
    • During a panic attack, ask if it's ok if you come close. Getting in my face can make the attack worse. Sometimes holding my hand helps, sometimes it's a trigger.
    • Never tell the person having the attack to 'get over it.'
    • Remind me this won't last forever.
    • Keep yourself calm. I will eventually feed off your calmness and I'll be able to calm down.
    • Sometimes I don't need someone to try and fix it. Sometimes they just need to be there with a simple hug or to hold a hand.

From Mental Health on the Mighty

rubble of destruction in gaza strip.