WhatIsTheNews.press

Title: Recovering Addict Reveals £4 Hack to Help Manage Anxiety and Panic Attacks A recovering addict, known as Mr Impulsive on TikTok, has shared a helpful hack to assist those struggling with anxiety. With a large following, Mr Impulsive often creates videos based on his own experiences to support individuals dealing with addiction and mental illness. In a recent clip on managing anxiety and panic attacks, he suggested an unconventional product that has personally aided him and could potentially help others. The video has garnered over 3.1 million views, with viewers praising the hack as a "life saver." Mr Impulsive explained that Vicks Vaporub, an unexpected remedy, can alleviate anxiety and panic attacks. Demonstrating the technique, he advised applying a small amount of Vicks to the lower neck and chest area

The menthol in Vicks Vaporub creates a cooling sensation upon inhalation, redirecting thoughts and memories away from anxiety-inducing triggers. According to Mr Impulsive, this method helps regain control over breathing, which is often disrupted during anxiety attacks. By feeling the touch of the ointment and smelling the menthol, individuals can experience a calming effect, grounding them during an anxiety episode. Although Vicks Vaporub is not specifically designed for this purpose, Mr Impulsive believes it can be beneficial and encourages individuals to experiment with different methods to find what works best for them. He concludes by emphasizing the importance of self-worth and resilience in overcoming anxiety. Viewers who have tried this hack have expressed gratitude for its effectiveness. Some have shared their personal experiences, stating that Vicks Vaporub has helped them calm down and sleep better, even after discontinuing medication

Others have mentioned carrying Vicks with them wherever they go as a precautionary measure. One user compared this treatment to holding an ice cube, describing it as a "circuit breaker" for anxiety spells. Those who were unfamiliar with this advice thanked Mr Impulsive for sharing it, expressing their eagerness to try it out. Dr Hana Patel, an NHS GP and GP Medico-Legal Expert Witness, offers similar tips to patients experiencing panic attacks. These include staying in place, breathing slowly and deeply, focusing on positive and relaxing images, and reminding oneself that the attack will pass and is not life-threatening. Dr Patel explains that while Vicks Vaporub does not directly alleviate anxiety, its smell and cool touch divert attention away from the panic attack and back to the body. The act of touching and massaging Vicks can trigger the vagus nerve, signaling safety and well-being to the brain. In conclusion, the effectiveness of this hack lies more in the action of touching and breathing than in the Vicks Vaporub itself

While it may provide temporary relief during an acute panic attack, it is not a long-term solution.