Social Stories - 41

Sam was sitting in class when their chest started to feel tight, and their heart began to race. They noticed their hands were shaking and it felt hard to breathe. Sam remembered learning that these feelings might be a panic attack, so they took slow, deep breaths and reminded themselves they were safe. After a few minutes, they symptoms began to ease, and Sam felt proud for staying calm.

• I got it ...

• I'm confused ...

What are some physical sensations Sam felt during the panic attack?

• Chest tightness and fast heartbeat

• A headache and sore muscles

• Hunger and Sleepiness

What was Sam's first step to manage the panic attack?

• Ignoring the feelings

• Taking slow, deep breaths

• Running out of the room

How did Sam remind themselves they were safe?

• By listening to music

• By telling themselves positive thoughts

• By calling their parent

What should you do if you see someone experiencing a panic attack?

• Tell them to calm down

• Stay calm, offer support and encourage slow breathing.

• Leave them alone to figure it out

• Call an ambulance

After the panic attack, what could Sam do to feel better?

• Talk to a trusted friend or adult

• Pretend it didn't happen

• Take a nap in class

What is this calming breathing exercise called?

• Box Breathing

• Heavy Breathing

• Panic Breaths

Try it for 30 seconds - How do you feel?

• Worse

• Better

• No Different