Panic Attacks
Understanding panic attacks — and how support can help
Panic attacks can be frightening, disorienting, and overwhelming. They often arrive suddenly and can make it feel as though something is seriously wrong, even when you’re not in immediate danger.
I work with people who experience panic attacks using clinical hypnotherapy and mindfulness, supporting the nervous system to calm and regain a sense of safety.
What panic attacks feel like
Panic attacks are intensely physical experiences. Symptoms may include:
a racing or pounding heart
shortness of breath or a feeling of suffocation
dizziness or light-headedness
sweating or trembling
nausea or stomach discomfort
chest tightness or pain
a sense of losing control or “going mad”
fear of fainting or dying
Although panic attacks are not dangerous, they can feel deeply alarming — especially when they happen for the first time or in public.
Why panic attacks happen
Panic attacks are linked to the body’s fight-or-flight response.
The nervous system detects a perceived threat and releases adrenaline, preparing the body to escape danger. When this response is triggered in situations that aren’t actually dangerous, panic can occur.
Common triggers include:
driving
leaving home
crowded places
shops or public transport
work situations or interviews
places where you’ve previously had a panic attack
Over time, fear of having another panic attack can lead to avoidance, which can make panic feel more powerful.
Panic attacks are not “all in your head”
People experiencing panic attacks are often told to “calm down” or “pull themselves together”. This can feel invalidating and unhelpful.
Panic attacks are automatic nervous system responses, not a lack of willpower or strength. Because they operate below conscious control, trying to reason them away often doesn’t work.
This is why approaches that work with the body and subconscious mind can be particularly helpful.
How hypnotherapy can help with panic attacks
Hypnotherapy for panic attacks focuses on helping the nervous system feel safer and less reactive.
Working gently and at your pace, hypnotherapy can help to:
reduce the intensity and frequency of panic attacks
calm the fight-or-flight response
break the cycle of fear and anticipation
address underlying triggers, even when they’re not fully conscious
rebuild confidence in situations that currently feel unsafe
You remain fully aware and in control throughout sessions.
What sessions are like
Sessions are calm, collaborative, and tailored to you.
Depending on what’s helpful, I may draw on:
clinical hypnotherapy
mindfulness-based approaches
nervous-system-informed techniques
EMDR-informed work
EFT (Emotional Freedom Technique)
We work in a way that feels safe and manageable, without forcing exposure or pushing you into frightening situations.
How long does it take?
This varies from person to person.
Some people notice a reduction in panic relatively quickly, while others prefer a more gradual approach — particularly if panic has been present for a long time or is linked to other forms of anxiety.
There’s no fixed number of sessions, and we review progress together.
Online and in-person support
I work with clients:
online worldwide, and
in person in Chichester and West Sussex
Online sessions can be especially helpful for panic attacks, as you’re able to work from a familiar and safe environment.
Panic attacks, anxiety, and stress
Panic attacks often sit alongside anxiety or prolonged stress.
You may find it helpful to explore these related pages:
Anxiety
Stress & overwhelm
Taking the next step
If panic attacks are affecting your confidence or limiting your life, support is available.
You’re welcome to get in touch to arrange an initial conversation and explore whether this approach feels right for you.
Professional note
Panic attacks are not dangerous, but they can feel frightening. Hypnotherapy is not a substitute for medical care, and outcomes vary depending on individual circumstances and engagement with the process.