After a panic attack, your body feels like it just narrowly survived being mauled by a bear. Someone told me once that a panic attack has the same effect on the body as running a half marathon. Whether that’s literally true or not, your muscles, lungs, heart, brain, and the rest of you just got an intense workout.
It’s normal to feel exhausted. After a panic attack, make sure you set aside time to rest and recover just like you would after a hard day of physical exercise or a major exam.
After a panic attack, make sure you write it down in your tracker, if you’re tracking them. Keeping track of the circumstances of your panic attacks can help you identify the underlying causes.
Food: You’ll probably be hungry and dehydrated. I find that carb-heavy foods like pasta help me feel better, and hydrating drinks like coconut water work great as well. Find your comfort food and nourish your body with what it needs. If you’re especially craving something, try and make sure you have it — break your diet’s rules, tell your friends you need to pick the restaurant tonight, splurge on ordering delivery, etc.
Feelings: You may need extra support after a panic attack. If you have a therapist who takes phone calls, have a quick chat with them. Call a trusted friend or ask for good vibes on your social media channels. It’s okay to reach out and get help caring for yourself. Or, if alone time helps you recharge, do that. Cancel plans, meditate, journal, watch a favorite movie. And if you are keeping track of your panic attacks, take time to record what happened.
Rest: Go to bed earlier than you would and take special care to be comfy and cozy — take a bath before bed, wear favorite pajamas, whatever helps you snuggle in. Try chamomile tea, a candle with a relaxing scent, or calming music. If masturbation helps you relax and get to sleep, try that. If you take sleep aids — melatonin, Zzzquil, prescription drugs — use one of those.
This article is part of the “So You Had A Panic Attack” resource guide. Go back to the SYHAPA index page
