LEBANON – As part of efforts to strengthen the psychological response for individuals facing stress or traumatic events, the National Mental Health Program at the Ministry of Public Health, in collaboration with the World Health Organization, has launched an awareness campaign aimed at explaining the nature of panic attacks and how to support those experiencing them.

What Are Panic Attacks?

The campaign defines panic attacks as sudden waves of intense fear or distress that occur unexpectedly, accompanied by physical and psychological symptoms such as rapid heartbeat, shortness of breath, and extreme tension.

How to Support Someone Experiencing a Panic Attack:

The campaign provides simple and practical steps that anyone can follow to assist those affected:

• Slow Breathing: Encourage the person to inhale for 3 seconds, hold their breath for 3 seconds, then exhale slowly for 4–6 seconds, practicing the breathing audibly to help them follow the rhythm.

• Reassure the Person: Remind them that they are safe, the episode is temporary and will not last long, and importantly, that they are not in any mortal danger.

• Physical Accompaniment: If the person cannot sit calmly, walk with them slowly until they regain their balance.

Seeking Professional Support

The program emphasized the importance of not hesitating to seek professional help when needed, highlighting the availability of the National Psychological Support and Suicide Prevention Hotline: 1564, operated in collaboration with Embrace Association, available 24/7.