With a growing number of people affected by panic and anxiety in the 21st century, the choice of resources rushing to fill their needs can feel overwhelming. Psychologist Charles Schaeffer's book, When Panic Happens: Short-Circuit Anxiety and Fear in the Moment Using Neuroscience and Polyvagal Theory, cuts through it all to deliver a combination of guidance, exercises, and narratives perfect for reading as an informational text and for consulting as a handbook when the need arises.
Schaeffer introduces the concept of the polyvagal system, clearly and concisely explaining how "emotional, social, and individual experiences are regulated by your unconscious nervous system." Schaeffer refers to this system so that the connections between panic and physiological symptoms, such as digestive and sleep problems, are contextualized within a neuroscientific framework. The book is organized into three parts: information about "what happens when you panic," strategies for dealing with panic attacks, and methods for maintaining calm and stability in the long term. It's all presented in a gentle and encouraging tone. The suggested exercises include cognitive and meditative options as well as physical and musical activities, and Schaeffer acknowledges that every person will receive different benefits from each. He makes each exercise accessible, even recommending playing games like Candy Crush for a brain-building activity. References to characters in pop culture such as Spider-Man, the kids from Stranger Things, and the Guardians of the Galaxy help demonstrate complex concepts. Schaeffer's tone, simultaneously instructive and motivational, makes When Panic Happens essential for anyone experiencing panic or anxiety. --Dainy Bernstein, freelance reviewer