What is true: if someone is having a panic attack, you should…?

From the book – Chapter 18: Mental-Health Emergency and Safety

The right answer

Stay calm, speak slowly, and help them breathe

Stay with the person or ensure another trusted adult stays with them. Remove or secure potentially dangerous items if possible.

Speak calmly and respectfully.
Let them express feelings without interruption.
Avoid arguing, minimising, or moralising ("Think of your family", "This is selfish").
Validate pain: I can see how much you are suffering. I am here with you.

It is a myth that asking about suicide puts the idea in their head. Asking can reduce isolation and open a path to help.

You can ask: Are you thinking about killing yourself? Do you have a plan? Do you have access to the means? If they say yes, treat it as an emergency.

Contact the person's psychiatrist, psychologist, or doctor if they have one.
If not, go to the nearest hospital emergency department or contact emergency services.
Know where the nearest hospital is.
Do not promise secrecy when life is at risk. It is better to breach confidentiality to save a life.

Inform close family or friends who can help ensure safety. Share relevant information (risk, plan, means) so they can support monitoring and care.

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