How to Treat a Panic Attack

Realize that you’re panicking.
Panic begets panic. Do not panic about panicking. Tell yourself that you are not dying or going crazy, but experiencing an anxiety attack. This awareness will prevent the attack from escalating.
Loosen your clothes.
Do not tear off your dress or jacket. Open a few buttons; lower a zipper.
Control your breathing.
Prevent hyperventilation by slowing your breathing. Breathe into a paper bag to restore a balance of oxygen and carbon dioxide in your lungs.
Distract yourself.
Focus on a physical object in the room. While breathing into the bag, close your eyes and try to recall the location and colors of all the objects in the room.
Act natural.
Open your eyes. Stop using the bag. Refasten zippers and buttons. Walk. Try to smile. Tell yourself it’s over and everything is fine.
Resume your activities.

Be Aware

An attack usually lasts between 15 and 30 minutes. Symptoms include pounding heart, sweating, dilated pupils, trembling, dry mouth, shortness of breath or sensation of being smothered, feelings of being choked, chest pain, nausea, dizziness, sense of being detached from oneself, and fear of losing control or going crazy.
Knowing that you can conquer the attacks will sharply reduce their occurrence. Conversely, knowing that you are prey to attacks and cannot control them may sharply increase their occurrence.