Covid's mental health toll - How the pandemic has led to a rise in panic attacks
Covid-19 has increased anxiety for many of us and mental health charities say there's been a steep rise in people seeking help for panic attacks.
Anything from worries about health and money; to changes at work, school, or relationships, can cause deep-seated anxiety.
During the pandemic, there have been many potential anxiety triggers such as fears over the virus, going outdoors, infecting other people, wearing masks and returning to normal life, as well as what the future holds.
Sarah Harrison, from Bolton, has got two small children and a full time job. She started having panic attacks at the beginning of lockdown.
At its worst, she was having several a day- leaving her physically and mentally exhausted.
Sarah believes lockdown triggered her panic attacks and she's not alone.
While one in ten people will experience a panic attack at some stage in their lives- experts say there's been a significant increase in people seeking support for panic attacks during lockdown.
The first time Duncan Thorpe had one, he thought it was his heart.
Duncan, who's from Warrington, thinks stress and health anxiety were huge factors in his panic attacks. The father-of-two says daily exercise and meditation help him manage the condition.
Sarah says regular online cognitive behavioural therapy has helped with her anxiety and she's now having fewer panic attacks.
She feels back in control of her life.
Gamal Fahnbulleh spoke to Dr Aman Amir, a GP in Knowsley, about how to deal with stress and anxiety.
He started by asking him whether he feels like we are on the cusp of a mental health crisis.
For more information and support:
Life within four walls: the impact of the pandemic on older people