Understanding Anxiety Attacks: Insights from an Autistic Perspective
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Chapter 1: The Nature of Anxiety Attacks
Anxiety attacks are frequently observed in individuals with autism, although they are not limited to this group. This phenomenon is particularly prominent across various age groups. What exactly is an anxiety attack, and how can one mitigate its effects?
To clarify, anxiety attacks are often mistaken for panic attacks. The distinction lies in their causes; panic attacks arise from a feeling of fear without any tangible threat, while anxiety attacks stem from excessive worry linked to specific dangers or life events. While "anxiety attack" may not be a formally recognized medical term, it holds significant relevance within the autism community, making the differentiation crucial.
Common symptoms of an anxiety attack include rapid heartbeat, sweating, trembling, difficulty breathing, chest discomfort, stomach issues, chills, numbness, and pounding fists. While there are additional symptoms, these represent the core indicators.
The first time I witnessed an anxiety attack was in my eldest son, triggered by the departure of friends who had moved away. This was a difficult transition for us, especially after a seven-year friendship. My son, who had not yet been placed with a foster family, reacted with an overwhelming scream, curling up and crying while hitting his legs. I struggled to remain composed, grappling with my own feelings of loss while trying to support him.
Having been a parental figure to those children, their absence left a significant void in my life. The memories in my home were constant reminders of them, leading me to consider moving to escape the emotional weight. I spent over a year in a depressive state before experiencing my own anxiety attack during Easter. Though I typically enjoy holiday festivities, my mood was particularly low this year. Encouraged by my oldest son, I reluctantly took my youngest to a park for an egg hunt. On the way, the song "Fallin’ Down" by Lil Peep triggered an anxiety attack. I found myself crying uncontrollably, struggling to breathe, and feeling paralyzed. Fortunately, I managed to pull over and regain some composure, although I was alone with a child who had no understanding of my turmoil.
Soothing an Anxiety Attack
When witnessing someone in the throes of an anxiety attack, it’s crucial to avoid dismissive comments like "just calm down," as this can come across as a lack of empathy. Instead, what can you do to help?
First and foremost, remain present. It might be tempting to walk away in frustration, but the individual experiencing the anxiety attack needs your support. I recall feeling overwhelmed while watching my son during his most intense episode; despite my instinct to retreat, I knew that my presence was vital.
If they are receptive to physical contact, consider offering a supportive hug. However, if they are expressing their emotions through physical actions, it’s best to avoid trying to restrain them, as this can exacerbate the situation. Instead, provide calming tools like soothing music, dim lighting, noise-canceling headphones, or stress balls to aid in emotional release. Maintain a calm demeanor and speak softly, unless it appears to upset them; in that case, simply being there without words can be comforting.
If the individual requests solitude, resist the urge to leave. Your presence is crucial for their safety. Should the anxiety attack become unmanageable for you, it may be necessary to call for medical assistance. Typically, anxiety attacks subside within minutes to hours, but they can be more severe in some cases, particularly if there are underlying health issues.
For those prone to anxiety attacks, it’s wise to refrain from driving during particularly challenging times. I was fortunate to have prior experience with my own anxiety, which allowed me to recognize the signs before they escalated. If a certain song triggers your anxiety, acknowledge your feelings rather than avoiding them. Allow yourself to express emotions during these moments, as suppressing them may lead to more intense episodes later.
In adulthood, anxiety attacks often occur in solitude, where individuals are more familiar with coping mechanisms. Always keep a phone handy in case you need to reach out for help. Building a strong support network is also beneficial. If anxiety attacks are a recurring issue for you, consider discussing potential treatment options with a psychiatrist and maintaining regular therapy sessions to help process your emotions constructively.
I hope this information proves helpful for you or someone you care about when faced with anxiety attacks. While it would be ideal to believe these situations are rare, anxiety attacks can strike anyone at any time, making preparedness key.
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