Dear Dr. B,

When I get stressed, I’ve noticed my heart races and I have a hard time catching my breath. What should I do?

Sincerely, Stressed and Breathless

Dear Stressed,

First, I would most certainly recommend that you make an appointment with your primary care physician to ensure that there isn’t something medically wrong that needs to be treated.

Assuming that you are medically cleared, it sounds to me like you may be experiencing the symptoms of a panic attack. A panic attack is, in essence, a collection of physiological symptoms which is your body’s reaction to anxiety. But panic attacks can mimic other medical conditions which is why I first suggested you see your medical doctor to rule out other medical conditions.

In the case of panic, it’s important to recognize that it will pass.

Take a deep breath

It’s also helpful to know that it is impossible for your brain and your body to be relaxed and anxious at the same time. So, if you will take a few really deep breaths, and concentrate on relaxing rather than focusing on the panic, it will help.

You mentioned that this tends to happen when you are stressed.  I’d encourage you to find some better ways of coping with your stress so that your brain and body don’t resort to anxiety and panic.

Practice prayer and gratitude in every situation

The Bible says to “Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all comprehension, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus” (Philippians 4:6-7).

When anxiety is filling our minds and bodies with stress, the Bible instructs us to….

Pray about everything.
Trust Him to work in His perfect timing.
Thank Him in advance for answering your prayers.
Then, God’s peace will guard our hearts and minds.

That’s about the best stress-reduction strategy I can offer.

In Philippians 4:6-7, the Bible instructs us to be anxious for nothing. What do we do when anxiety is filling our minds and bodies with stress? Read more for tips for coping with panic attacks and the best stress-reduction strategy I can offer. #Bible verse #anxiety #panicattack

 

 

Here are a couple of other tips for coping with panic attacks

Maintaining a consistent sleep schedule and regular physical exercise help mitigate stress.

Focusing on the positive also helps. Thanking God in the midst of our struggles helps us do that.

Taking regular breaks is important.

If you need help coming up with additional coping strategies for managing the stress in your life, you may want to consider consulting with a therapist for a few sessions.

Keep in mind, most of what we worry about never comes to pass.

Hope Prevails,
Dr. B

 

(If you have a question you’d like Dr. B to answer, contact her here now. Your name and identity will be kept confidential.)

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Helpful Resources for Anxiety:

Recommended Reading (Books)

Other Helpful Articles for Panic and Anxiety:

Ask DrB: What is the Difference Between an Anxiety Attack and a Panic Attack
Talk Back to Anxiety
7 Steps for Coping with Anxiety
It is Finished: What Jesus Would Say About Anxiety
Anxious for No Thing
Coping with Panic Attacks
Don’t Give Worry a Voice
Take a Deep Breath

Resource to Break Anxiety’s Grip

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No question, we have a lot to worry about. Children, jobs, homes, health, finances, and more. The solution isn’t to rid ourselves of the sources of anxiety – as if we could. Instead, we need to recognize that anxiety originates from a spiritual influence and that we can fight back using the God-given weapons of power, love, and a sound mind.

We can discover true peace in an age of anxiety.

In Breaking Anxiety’s Grip, Dr. Michelle Bengtson shares her own story of emerging from the battle with anxiety as well as the stories of others. She reminds you of your identity as a follower of Christ and of the peace he promises you in spite of everything.

She provides tools to cope with the crushing emotional burden of anxiety now and, more importantly, shows you how to reclaim God’s peace as a way of life so that you can break anxiety’s grip.

Breaking Anxiety’s Grip: How to Reclaim the Peace God Promises is now available on AmazonBarnes & NobleChristianBooks.comBooks-A-Millionand other fine book retailers.

Click here to learn more:  Breaking Anxiety’s Grip.

 

In stressful situations, does your heart is race? Are you having a hard time catching your breath? You may be having a panic attack. Read more as Dr. Bengtson shares how to cope with panic attacks and the best stress-reduction strategy she has to offer. #anxiety #panicattack

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