My Journey to Wholeness: Dealing with panic and anxiety attacks

I found myself in the middle of a mild panic attack. My hands were numb, my heart pounded. I needed to settle down.

I breathed deep and quickly identified 5 things that I could see, 4 things to touch, 3 sounds I could hear and 2 scents to smell. I felt more grounded. I prayed.

I have healed much ever since I first encountered depression. But ever so often, a panic attack strikes and I can feel helpless and hopeless. These few steps have helped me get a better grip with reality and helped me calm down.

Sometimes we find ourselves in a whirlwind. Whether it’s a panic attack like the one I faced or something bigger that doesn’t resolve simply, we can learn to ground ourselves in reality. For me, one of the greatest reality is found in the truths of God’s word – the bible.   The challenge is to look up when you feel like panicking. To gaze on God’s beauty when you feel very negative.

Today, to help yourself look up when it’s hard, I have adapted a little formula for you.

Why not create a little ’emergency sheet’ with 5 characters of God to meditate upon, 4 truths about who you are in Christ, 3 scripture verses, 2 thanksgiving and 1 worship song to hear or a simple prayer to pray. 

Give it a try. The situation may not have changed but you have greater perspective. You can now stop being overwhelmed by feelings and fears and instead look at the greater reality – God Himself.

If you did try it, send me a picture of your ’emergency sheet’!

Meanwhile, listen to the song below by Lauren Daigle.