Why do I get into a panic when nothing is actually wrong?
A panic attack can feel terrifying, racing heart, difficulty breathing, feeling dizzy, shaky, or even detached from what's happening around you. Many people are convinced that they're having a heart attack or are about to pass out.
Your body isn't letting you down. It's doing its best to protect you from something it perceives as a threat.
The feelings are so unpleasant that you've probably become hypervigilant for signs of another attack, such as monitoring your breathing or checking your heart rate. Maybe you've started avoiding places where a panic attack has happened before, or losing trust in your ability to stay calm at all. All of which keep your nervous system on high alert and make a panic attack more likely.
We won't start by telling you there's nothing to panic about. We get curious about what your nervous system has flagged as dangerous, and what sets off the false alarm. Together, we help your mind and body relearn that these sensations, frightening as they are, aren't actually dangerous. As the alarm stops firing so easily, the cycle tends to loosen its grip.
What happens over our four sessions?
I work within a structured programme of four sessions (usually weekly, where possible) because meaningful change rarely happens in a single appointment. Each session builds on the last, giving your mind and body time to settle, learn and change.
Your first session starts with a conversation. We'll take time to understand what's been happening, what you'd like to be different, and answer any questions you have about the process. I'll then guide you into hypnosis, a calm, inward-focused state, rather like daydreaming, but with a purpose. You remain aware and in control throughout. Many people tell me it's one of the most relaxing experiences they've had in a long time.
Each session is tailored to you and builds on your progress, combining conversation, hypnosis and practical tools where appropriate. You'll also receive personalised audio recordings to listen to between sessions, helping to reinforce the work we're doing together.
What people often notice
People often come hoping the attacks will simply stop. What tends to follow is far reaching: trusting your body again, feeling less afraid of the sensations themselves, going back to places you'd started avoiding, and ultimately, living life without bracing.
“Before starting the sessions I was struggling to carry out a day of work without bad anxiety leading to panic attacks. I felt helpless and had run out of options, which led me to Belief Dynamics. I cannot put into words how truly grateful I am for the outcome. No more panic attacks and just a little anxiety which I can now control, thanks to Mel. It really is life-changing treatment and I would recommend it to anyone.”
Is this the right approach for you?
Many people have occasional panic attacks during stressful periods, after a frightening experience, or when life has felt overwhelming. Others develop panic disorder, where the fear of a future attack starts shaping everyday decisions.
Your free consultation is an opportunity for us to understand what's been happening and decide together whether hypnotherapy is the right approach for you. If I think another form of support or a medical assessment would help, I'll always say so.
Ready to trust yourself again?
Start with a free, friendly chatMelissa is an HPD Level 4 Clinical Hypnotherapist, registered with the NCH, BSCH and CNHC, working with adults, children and teens in Harpenden, Hertfordshire, and online.