I used to suffer from panic attacks for years, ever since I witnessed a traumatic event. Fear would seep in to each day of my life, as I was terrified that an attack would happen to me and that I would pass out or be otherwise vulnerable.
It was only recently that I finally overcame them. Now it's like a veil has been lifted on the world, and everything seems less frightening.
What I think really helped me is understanding that panic attacks cannot hurt you. Yes, they are scary as all get-out, but they go away and they do not cause fainting or anything like that. Once you understand that, you become a little less afraid.
Another very important thing is I realized that
I was the one causing these attacks. Getting myself worked up and constantly being afraid of an attack is what
caused them. This can take some time, but stopping the fear of attacks is really what stops them. You have to realize that you
are in control, even if that seems untrue. Even little subconscious thoughts and fears can bring on an attack, so you have to make sure you stifle those types of negative thoughts. As Lost Drifter mentioned, "distracting yourself" from negative thoughts can work wonders.
One thing that I do is show myself how silly I sound when I start thinking things like "What if I have a panic attack when I am standing in line, and everyone stares at me?" If things like this come into your head, just repeat to yourself "That won't happen, because I am in control and I say it won't happen." Sometimes, I will even say this aloud to myself.
Taking classes like Tai Chi can also be helpful, I found. After embracing the philosophy of Tai Chi and practicing everyday, I became so much calmer and happier, and realized that the world was a lot less scary that I had previously believed.
All three of these things contributed to my escape from panic attacks, and I hope these tips will help you as well. I would be more than happy to help you out in any way, as I know how scary these situations can be and how futile it may seem to eliminate panic.
Don't lose hope! You can eliminate these attacks! It may seem corny, but
believing that you can stop these attacks and
knowing that you are in control really helps, too!