In can feel completely humiliating to have a panic attack in front of other people, especially in a professional setting or around people you aren’t close to. In the midst of a panic attack, the embarrassment can make you feel worse, and afterwards, the memory of feeling so vulnerable in front of other people can create lots of shame.
Know that most people don’t judge other people for having medical crises — the people in that situation were concerned about you and mostly worried about how to help you, even if they did so in a clumsy way. If you had a seizure, or an allergic reaction, it wouldn’t carry any social stigma, so try to think about it that way.
Plus, tons of people have had medical mini-crises in public or on camera, and all were met with concern and sympathy rather than judgment, and all went on to continue having lovely, successful lives! People like:
If you feel like it would help, you can reach out to the people you were with and thank them for being there for you. You can explain to them what a panic attack is — they may ask questions to help understand. Then, let them know how they can help you in the future, both to avoid panic attacks and help you get through them if they do happen.
If people are judgmental or otherwise act inappropriately, you now have some crucial information — that these people are not safe or trustworthy. Talk to people you do trust about getting help and support, and know that anyone judging you for having a panic attack isn’t someone whose opinion matters.
If you need help getting accommodations for panic and anxiety in a professional setting, talk to your HR rep, your manager, or a mental health professional about qualifying for accommodations. If you are a student worried about how panic and anxiety can affect you in the classroom, check with your school about what services are available.
Check out this section on helping other people understand and help with your panic attacks.
This article is part of the “So You Had A Panic Attack” resource guide. Go back to the SYHAPA index page
