Any emergency situation, whether a natural disaster, injury while camping or hiking, or other crisis, is going to get adrenaline coursing through the body and can induce moments of undiluted panic. Since panicking is one of the worst things you can do in an emergency, check out a few tips for keeping yourself and everyone around you calm. When you’re calm or reasonably calm, you will be able to address and handle the situation much more effectively.
Remember to Breathe
Whatever situation you’re faced with, one of the first things to remember to do is breathe. While this may seem overly simple and unimportant, taking deep breaths is the quickest way to calm the heck down. People who are panicking usually take short, shallow breaths, which contribute to severe anxiety attacks among other unpleasantness. No matter what’s happening, be sure to breathe, and tell everyone around you to do the same thing. This calms the physical, mental and emotional body, and you’ll be able to deal with the situation with a clear head, which is very necessary!
Focus on the Moment
Rather than thinking about all the things that can possibly go wrong in an emergency situation, focus on what’s actually happening at that moment. For example, if a friend falls and is injured while on a camping trip, don’t think about all the things that can happen, which will only cause your friend to panic more. Instead, think about what emergency contacts you have in your phone if applicable, how far you are from the campsite or other area of civilization, and what you supplies you have on you to help alleviate the situation. Also remember to look at your surroundings, which can be helpful in terms of items you require, such as a sturdy branch for a split, as well as what dangers, such as a foraging bear, are near.
Maintain a Calm Exterior
Even if you’re freaking out on the inside, you’ll want to breathe and maintain a calm exterior to prevent everyone around you from panicking. Speak in calm, soothing tones, and assure the people you’re with of what you’re going to do to rectify the situation. For example, if you know how to administer CPR or have other First Aid skills, make everyone aware. Another example is having emergency contacts in your phone, or knowing where the nearest hospital is located. Nothing is going to get done if everyone panics, so alerting people to a plan of action is an easy way to diffuse the situation.
What are your best tips for keeping yourself and friends/family calm in an emergency situation? Share them in the comments section!