Freespira, Inc. articles

Among the mental health “hacks” that have gone viral online recently: dealing with anxiety attacks by sucking on sour candy or dunking your face in ice water. The idea is to distract yourself from panic symptoms by changing your focus. So, does it work?

It might seem to help people with moderate panic attacks. “By definition, panic attacks are time-limited,” says Freespira chief medical officer Dr. Bob Cuyler.

Lack of providers, long wait times for appointments, costs and other challenges can make it tough to access mental health care. Some of the communities most affected by mental health struggles are at the highest risk for not receiving care.

Overcoming care obstacles

Negative attitudes toward people living with mental health conditions are common in the U.S. One study showed that 

We can all benefit from healthy coping skills. And for people dealing with mental health issues like anxiety attacks and PTSD symptoms, it can be especially key to find ways to handle strong emotions like stress and fear. Here are 7 self-help practices worth trying.

1. Make some art

When was the last time you drew a picture or painted—for fun? Art can be a helpful way to express your emotions, and it can help you de

People call summertime “carefree.” But for those who struggle with panic attacks or PTSD symptoms, it can be anything but. If someone you care about suffers from these symptoms, read on to learn more about how you can support them and have their back—in summer and beyond.

1. Crowded places

Farmers markets, festivals, and parades are summertime staples. Yet for many people, these events c

People who live with trauma symptoms—and the people who care for them—know how challenging the condition can be to treat. Medications and talk therapy help many patients, but are ineffective for many others. The search continues for treatments that work and offer lasting benefits for the millions of Americans who live with PTSD.

Sources of trauma

Though PTSD is linked with military personnel, it isn’t limited to serv