What to Do During a Panic Attack

A panic attack is intense, but it is not dangerous — and it will end. Here's what to do: sit or lean against something, don't try to flee. Say to yourself: this is a panic attack, it's not dangerous, it will pass. Breathe slowly — in for 4 counts, out for 6 to 8. Ground yourself by naming 5 things you can see right now.

The most important thing: don't fight it. Resisting a panic attack intensifies it. The peak is usually around 10 minutes, and then it subsides. Your body cannot maintain that level of activation indefinitely. Let it move through you rather than trying to stop it.