"The entrance of thy words giveth light (Psalm 119:130)."
Panic Attacks
If you've ever had a panic attack, you know that you've experienced something very different from anxiety or stress.
Here's a concise definition:
"A panic attack is a sudden episode of intense fear that triggers severe physical reactions when there is no real danger or apparent cause. Panic attacks can be very frightening. When panic attacks occur, you might think you're losing control, having a heart attack or even dying."1
In terms of causation, there are medical issues that need to be ruled out by a doctor. This is a recommended first step. There are legitimate medical conditions that do cause panic attacks. Panic attacks can also be a side effect of prescription or street drugs. They can also be the result of withdrawal when the use of alcohol, some street drugs or some prescription medications are reduced or discontinued. Caffeine withdrawal can also cause panic attacks in some people.
What a layman might view as a panic attack may actually be a life-threatening medical condition like a heart attack. This is another reason why they should be promptly evaluated by a physician.
However, usually this is not the case. Panic attacks are usually the result of spiritual warfare. But you have to respond to the bodily sensations with fear for the demon to be successful.
In order to benefit from this article, it is recommended that you first get saved, before continuing.
Panic attacks thrive on fear. A panic attack feels scary, but it is nothing to be afraid of. If you allow yourself to entertain panicky thoughts, the panic attacks will become stronger and more frequent. Phobias will also likely develop since the panic attacks will occur in some context.
I've only had one true panic attack in my lifetime. I remember standing by myself, near the library, at San Diego State University. All of a sudden, for no apparent reason, I had this tense, scary feeling. I knew what it was. And I just said to myself something like "It's just a panic attack. It's no big deal." I chose to not be afraid of it. It passed after about ten minutes. I never had another one. This happened long before I became a Christian.
Panic attacks are based on fear. And, in my experience, the cure is really simple:
- Allow yourself to feel the bodily sensations.
- Don't be afraid of them.
Three additional suggestions follow:
First: Distract yourself: find some way of focusing your mind on something else. This is a part of not being afraid.
Second: You can recite and apply Scripture.
Example:
- Recite Scripture: "Be anxious for nothing . . ." {Philippians 4:4 NASB}
- Be anxious for nothing.
Third: You can also try praying in tongues.
Every time you experience the panicky feeling, but choose not to be afraid, the spiritual foothold that is the basis of your so-called panic disorder will become less powerful. The panic attacks will, in time, become less powerful and less frequent. They may disappear entirely.
You can never learn to get rid of your panic attacks if you are taking psychotropic medication to treat them. Remember, the cure involves both experiencing the bodily sensations and not being afraid of them. Furthermore, if you are taking medication for a panic disorder, you are also fueling the idea that you need these medications.
Definitely not a good idea.
The Bible says "Be anxious for nothing . . ." {Philippians 4:4 NASB}
Not even for a panic attack.
1 Mayo Clinic.
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