Hello,
Last night my 8 year old daughter had what I can only describe as a panic attack.
We were on the couch watching TV when she started grabbing her neck and saying she couldn't breath and that her heart was beating too fast.
Her heart was most definitely racing and after asking her to take some big deep breaths she was breathing fine.
This went on and off for about 10 minutes of utter panic, she was absolutely petrified.
Once she had calmed down completely I asked her if anything had happened at school or if anything was bothering her, both answers were no.
However her brother piped up at this point to say that the same thing (panic attack?) had happened at school earlier that day.
Im at a total loss, she is such a happy girl with everyone always commenting that her smile never leaves her face.
I have an appointment to see the doctor but just wonder if anyone else has had this and what coping mechanisms worked for you??
Thank you
Panic attacks in children
Panic attacks in children
Posted in:
Mental Health, Anxiety & Depression, Kids
3 Replies
My son was 18 (so obviously a lot older) when he started having panic attacks. Unfortunately the fight or flight mechanism in the body is going ballistic often for no apparent reason. What we found was they snowball into panic attacks about having panic attacks.
We used a combination breathing techniques, stretches and as needed medication. So he wasn't on meds permanently but pops a pill at the start of an attack. What we found then was over time he needed less medication and now only takes a tablet very occasionally. I had control of the meds, to make sure they were being used appropriately. His were pretty extreme form of attack so meds were absolutely necessary for his own safety.
You will probably find a psychologist very helpful. They don't usually do talk therapy with kids, but can teach relaxation techniques, and coping mechanisms.
Asthma?
the school shouldve called you to take her up to the hospital panic attack or not they can also be symptoms of serious problems. my daughter had panic attacks at that age and I was immediately called by the school until they were diagnosed and even then the worst I get called.