Real Over Ideal
Function, not perfection.
Hosted by occupational therapist and executive coach Vanessa Gorelkin, Real over Ideal cuts through the noise to bring you practical strategies for life in a stressful world.
Real Over Ideal
How to Handle a Panic Attack like a boss
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How to Truly Handle a Panic Attack--
Practical Neuroscience-Based Strategies
In this episode, Vanessa Gorelkin debunks common misconceptions about panic attacks and anxiety, sharing evidence-based techniques rooted in neuroscience. If you've struggled with ineffective calming methods online, this guide provides clear, practical advice for interrupting and managing panic in the real world.
Key Topics:
- The fundamental difference between panic attacks and anxiety, including neurocircuitry distinctions
- Why traditional methods like deep breathing and talking it out often fail during panic attacks
- The role of the amygdala and hippocampus in panic, and how their interaction fuels the crisis
- Top down versus bottom up intervention strategies: why body-focused techniques are faster
- Practical protocols for physiological interruption, including grounding, cold water, humming, and more
- Why meditation is counterproductive during panic and best used preventively
- Why many well-meaning mental health professionals mismanage panic and how to recognize effective practices
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If you'd like to submit an "Untangle This" question, a comment, or an episode idea-- Email us:
realoveridealpod@gmail.com
Vanessa is available to consult professionally with individual clients. If you'd like to work with Vanessa , reach out here:
https://vanessagorelkin.com/contact-us#12398ed6-3711-4e15-ae41-4711059fd6ab
If you'd like to read about Vanessa's background, treatment perspective and techniques, or other handy information about her practice, check out her Psychology Today profile here:
https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/therapists/vanessa-gorelkin-scottsdale-az/809467
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