Explore symptoms of a panic attack on the screen and ways to cope.
Understanding the Issue
On-line animation offers a fun, non-threatening way to engage clients, students or groups. This tool was created in partnership with youth volunteers of mindyourmind.ca’s Get Real NationWide Campaign. The design, which references DaVinci’s famous drawing of the multi-limbed '˜Vitruvian Man’, is meant to show that panic attacks can create real physical symptoms that are sometimes mistaken for other problems. “Sometimes, panic attacks can feel like heart attacks” says one Get Real participant. “One time I had one and I really felt like there was a real medical problem.” The participants expressed hope that this tool will provide reassurance to those going through the worst of symptoms.
Tool Tips
Symptoms of panic are uncovered by clicking where indicated on the screen. Once all the signs are revealed, the player is led to the next screen which reveals tips for how to get through panic. This tool can be a jumping off point for developing other coping techniques that resonate for the individual.
Key Messages
- Knowledge and awareness is an important first step in managing symptoms of anxiety and panic.
- Your knowledge can also help a friend or family member who is experiencing symptoms.
Tech Tips
- You’ll need high speed Internet access ready for the session.
- Preview this tool prior to client’s appointment time at mindyourmindpro.ca.
- Familiarize yourself with navigation of www.mindyourmind.ca.
- Use the tool with client(s) on mindyourmind.ca. This encourages clients to revisit the site after and between sessions. mindyourmind.ca is an accessible, powerful resource.
- You’ll need a printer, and speakers for many tools and games.
- You’ll need Adobe Flash Player for many games and tools available from www.adobe.com/products/flash/about.