This week I share a simple yet effective grounding technique for managing anxiety and panic attacks that I used with my daughter during a moment of panic for her.

Key Takeaways

The Grounding Technique

* I relate this to a crisis survival skill from Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)

* This grounding strategy uses your senses to anchor you in the present moment and stop spiraling thoughts of panic

* Particularly helpful when anxiety pulls you into worst-case scenario thinking

* Useful when deep breathing feels inaccessible due to panic

How It Works

* Notice when anxiety is present (requires self-awareness)

* Look around and silently name three things in your environment

* Add details to each item: color, shape, texture, size, sound, smell

* Continue naming items or adding details until anxiety lessens

* Practice without judgment

Skill Stacking Tip

* For panic attacks, combine this grounding technique with calming physical positions:

* Put your legs up against a wall (elevate feet)

* Lower your head below your heart while sitting

* These positions can help slow breathing while practicing the grounding activity

Why This Works

* Pulls you out of anxious thoughts and back to what’s real in the moment

* Stops the spiral of worry and future-focused storytelling

* Helps regain a sense of control

* Similar to the 5-4-3-2-1 technique but quicker for crisis moments

Important Practice Notes

* Practice during calm moments to build the skill for when you really need it

* The more you practice when calm, the easier it will be to use during difficult times

* Even small reductions in anxiety can help you regain control

Additional Resources Mentioned

* Anxiety Grounding Breath video on YouTube

* Mental Health Coping Tools community on School.com

Practice this technique ahead of time so your brain and body remember what to do when anxiety shows up. Cope well!

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