24/03/2026
A panic attack can feel overwhelming and frightening, often coming on suddenly and without warning. You may experience a racing heart, shortness of breath, dizziness, chest tightness, or a sense of losing control. While these symptoms feel intense, they are not life-threatening.
Panic attacks are your body’s response to perceived danger, even when no real threat is present. Understanding this can help reduce fear in the moment.
If you feel a panic attack coming on, try to gently ground yourself:
• Focus on your breathing, inhale slowly through your nose for 4 seconds, hold for 4, and exhale for 6
• Name 5 things you can see, 4 you can feel, 3 you can hear, 2 you can smell, 1 you can taste
• Place your feet firmly on the ground and notice the support beneath you
• Remind yourself: “This will pass. I am safe.”
• If possible, move to a quiet, comfortable space.
These small steps can help bring your body out of panic and back to a state of calm.
If panic attacks are frequent or affecting your daily life, professional support can make a meaningful difference.
Contact Dr Marshinee Naidoo
📞 011 869 1755 / 076 414 3285
📧 dr.naidoo.m@gmail.com
Akeso Alberton
📍 Akeso Psychiatrist Clinic, Alberton, Suite 04
📞 087 098 0456 (ext. 5912)
Akeso Parktown
📍 Akeso Psychiatrist Clinic, Parktown, Suite 17
📞 087 098 0458 (ext. 5501)
