What Not To Say To Someone Having A Panic Attack

That’s not a helpful thing to say when they’re probably just having a small aneurysm.

Just because you’ve been to therapy twice doesn’t mean you get to be a show off.

Don’t confuse an anxiety episode for being the unwilling host of the archfiend himself.

Avoid shifting attention to yourself, even if you’re feeling a little left out of the whole “panic attack” thing.

No matter how well intentioned, it’s best to save the logistical questions.

Come on, she can see the iceberg and the ocean water flooding the upper decks just as well as you can.

Don’t invalidate how someone is feeling with matter-of-fact assessments.

Someone experiencing an emotional crisis will very likely shut down even further if asked to avert a plane crash.

It is! Don’t rub it in.

You are not licensed to provide exposure therapy, so keep the live bears confined.

Reminding them of their weird uncle in Toronto will actually make them feel lonelier than ever.

Are you seriously giving this person notes?

You might think you’re helping, but waving a gun in the air could actually make things far worse.

A simple “I’m here for you” will suffice.

Bringing up their poor performance in sports will not help the situation.

Instead try reassuring them that everyone you are broadcasting it to is rooting for them.

Gambling against someone’s partner making it out of a fatal car accident isn’t the best comfort.

This reassurance will most likely exacerbate the person’s condition even more after they realize they’re talking to a corny-ass loser.

If you’re going to offer them something to take the edge off, at least offer them your prescription drugs.

Don’t lie.