Learninghow to stop panic attackscan be one of the most rewarding things in the world.  It's true that one fifth of Americans suffer from panic attacks.  Even an anxiety attack which is simlar can be extremely overwhelming and make you feel helpless, anxious, scared or worried.

In order to begin overcoming panic attacks you must first understand what the actual symptoms are.

These are themost common symptoms of a panic attack.

• Rapid or pounding heartbeat
• Feeling lightheaded
• The sensation of a shortness of breath
• Chills or hot flashes
• Seemingly uncontrollable disturbing or negative thoughts
• Sweating and/or shaking
• Panic attacks can also cause nausea and stomach pains

These are not all of the symptoms but the most common are covered.  If you answered yes to more than one of these chances are that you have in fact had a panic attack.

The next step in how to stop panic attacks is to understand what is actually causing your anxiety attack or attacks.  Often times it's a seemingly simple trigger such as a particular type of situation or even upcoming events which can throw your brain into an uncomfortable panic attack.

There are different triggers for an attack which vary from person to person.  These are some of the most common causes for a panic attack.

• Traumatic events from the past can trigger current attacks.
• Having a panic dissorder can also be hereditary or genetic.
• Withdrawels and substance abuse can increase the risk of an attack.
• Existing mental or emotional disorders can increase the risk of panic attacks.

Once you understand the symptoms of a panic attack, and what may have caused it you can start treating it right away.  There a few quick and simple things you can do to make your panic attacks less intense and easier to deal with.

• Learn how to relax or meditate.  Close your eyes and put yourself exactly where you want to be.  Tell yourself to slow down, and take a second to think about something you love.
• Turn on your favorite tv show or local radio station and try to get involved.
• Find anything that can distract you from what may have caused this anxiety attack and go do it.
• Call a friend or a family member either for advice, or to sidetrack yourself.

What's most important is that you understandovercoming panic attacksis possible and you don't have an untreatable condition.  If some at home options don't work you can always seek professional help and find panic attack treatments at a local clinic or office.