Is there anything that I should do if I only think that a person is having a panic attack?
Talk to the person and try to work out if they have any insight into what is occuring. If this is a common occurence for them, try to calm them down and bring them into a more helpful state of mind.
Give them your name and try to use their first name too.
If you are not sure whether the person is having a panic attack or a heart attack - then what do you do?
This is a tough one as the differences between a panic attack and more serious disorders are often minor. You will need to take a view, however, and there is no real way to be sure without specialist tests.
Follow the basics and don’t worry if the diagnostics are too demanding. Then check to see whether they are wearing a medic alert bracelet or necklace. The alert may give you instructions to follow. Sometimes you need to call in the cavalry, just to stay safe.
OK - but if they are having a panic attack - then what do I do?
Clearly, one of you needs to be calm. Speak in short sentences and keep your messages clear. Tell them what is going on and keep letting them know that everything will be fine once the panic attack has ended. They may come up with some good ideas. Never belittle them - you need them to become resourceful. Terror can feel very real and, in the correct circumstances will save their life.
Sadly, it is sometimes scary in inopportune times, which will lead to people feeling less resourceful and helped.