Hi James, this may not be that helpful 8 months down the line but if my friends or family were asking I would want someone to answer so …Hi, I suffer with severe anxiety. I think every individual is different and if you are a sufferer you will have no doubt come up with coping strategies or things you find help ease the attack so best advice for me to give you is just ask the person who suffers. Even if your friendship is new it’ll help her know that you care. I personally use distraction techniques like sodoku, word searches etc. Some professionals have said count to ten but its not distracting enough for me as I dont need to think very hard to count to 10 so often doesn’t work. If i’m in the car I try to solve math equations in my head or play a word association game. I have an app on my phone called ‘headspace’ which has saved me in the past! I often feel claustrophobic during an attack so I like to get fresh air in a quiet space outside. I dont like to be touched, as senses and smells are often heightened, although its hard not to feel vulnerable and scared so I’ve been known to grab and squeeze someones hand who I trust during a panic attack. Try not to add pressure to your friend, always make it clear its her choice and she isnt letting you down whatever her decision maybe, even if its to leave a party to go home. I hope this has been helpful for you and or anyone else reading. Continue to be understanding there is no quick fix for living with this and every day has a different level of intensity. x
