As we approach Panic Awareness Day on 10 July, it's crucial to highlight "The Panic You Don't See." For many, Panic Attacks are visible symptoms but for some, they are silent internal battles that go unnoticed by those around them. SADAG aims to shed light on this through the campaign and online activities through discussions to deepen the understanding of how Panic appears differently, often hidden behind a calm exterior, and why care, understanding, and informed support is vital.
Panic Attacks are often recognised by a sudden intense fear or discomfort, and can be very disabling. These invisible symptoms might include a racing heart, overwhelming dread, a feeling of detachment, or intense physical sensations like dizziness or shortness of breath, all while the individual can appear composed. SADAG Board Chairperson and Clinical Psychologist, Dr Colinda Linde explains, “Panic doesn’t always look like gasping for air—it can be the quiet no shows, invitations declined, the life slowly shrinking behind closed doors. On Panic Day, let’s speak up about the Panic you don’t see, because naming it, is the first step to overcoming it”.
Often, people with Panic Disorder may experience the feeling of being trapped, a desperate urge to escape, or a fear of losing control – all while maintaining a calm outside. This silent struggle can make everyday activities like going to the shops, attending work meetings, driving, or going out with family or friends feel like a challenge. For those living with "The Panic You Don't See," seeking help is a courageous and an important step towards recovery. Understanding that these are treatable conditions and not personal failings, is the first step. Offering non-judgmental support to friends, family, or colleagues who may be silently battling Panic is equally vital.
“When it comes to Men and Mental Health in South Africa, we are facing a silent pandemic. Mental Health conditions such as Panic Disorder and other Anxiety-related conditions, are often hidden behind a mask of masculinity. As men, we suffer in silence because we fear the stigma - to be judged by society as not being a “real” man. We fear to be seen as weak. But Mental Health issues do not discriminate based on gender. It is not a weakness to suffer from Panic Disorder as a man — it's only human. We must continue to educate our society about Mental Health to ensure that we can create safe spaces where as men, we can speak openly about our emotional and psychological distress, seek help, and be supported without judgment. We have to end the stigma!”, says SADAG Board Member, Nkini Phasha.
SADAG would like to encourage the commitment to being more compassionate and informed to oneself and others. Zane Wilson, Founder of SADAG, who has a personal journey of Panic Attacks, inspired the start of the organisation 30 years ago, says "Panic Disorder can be a terrifying illness that can cause great distress, isolation, and limit your life. Don't suffer in silence alone. I experienced Panic for over 10 years, and I kept it a secret from most people. With the right treatment and support eventually, I was able to recover fully and take back control of my life. I started SADAG in 1994 to help patients living with Anxiety and Panic. I got the help I needed, and so can you!"
SADAG will be hosting a LIVE online Webinar on Thursday,10th of July, at 6:30pm where a panel of experts will be sharing vital information and coping strategies via Zoom and streaming live to SADAG’s Facebook page. To register for the free online Zoom Webinar, click here or visit SADAG’s Facebook Page to join in on the conversation. If you would like to access more information, visit our online toolkit on the website (www.sadag.org), you can access our brochures, handouts, a calendar of our online activities and videos to help you cope better.
SADAG invites you to join our online campaign to raise more awareness. , share your stories, reshare our information, and engage with our content. By encouraging open conversations and providing accessible resources, we can ensure that individuals battling with Panic can feel safe to share their experiences and access the free and caring help offered by SADAG. If you or a loved one needs support please give us a call on 0800 456 789 and 0800 70 80 90, or sms 31393 and Whastapp us on 087 163 2030, a counsellor is available 24 hours to help you.
