Stop Panic Attacks Fast with This Ice Hack Backed by a Surgeon

Anyone who has experienced a panic attack knows how difficult it can be. Many people in Israel have reported that since the Hamas massacre, they have experienced such attacks. The symptoms are a short, acute episode accompanied by feelings of fear, discomfort, and sometimes even physical pain such as shaking, dizziness, chest pain, and difficulty breathing.

A video circulated on TikTok featuring Dr. Jeremy London, an American heart surgeon, who shared a simple technique he says can stop a panic attack. According to him, a bag of ice can do the trick.

“If you're in the middle of an attack, fill a bag with ice and place it on the back of your neck or your lower back,” he explains in the viral video. “If you don’t have a bag of ice, take a cold shower. And if that’s not possible, use the sink- splash cold water on your face or wet your back a bit.”

London emphasizes that the most important thing is applying something cold. What if it happens while you're driving? “Pull over, go into one of the convenience stores at a gas station, fill a large cup with ice, and place your hand in it.” According to him, this stops the fear or panic response because the process “shocks the nervous system,” allowing the body to reset. “If you or someone close to you suffers from panic attacks, make sure they know about this tool. It’s simple, safe, and effective.”

London’s video has gained thousands of views and tens of thousands of shares. However, some commenters noted that the method is not always practical because ice isn't always readily available. Others claimed that ice wouldn't help in their case, as their panic attacks involve additional symptoms that aren’t addressed by this technique.