Panic Attacks in British Sign Language (BSL)

The sign for “panic attacks” in BSL is used to communicate experiences of intense fear or anxiety that can occur suddenly and without warning. This sign is commonly used in discussions about mental health and personal experiences within the UK Deaf community.

How to Sign “Panic Attacks”

1. Start with both hands in front of your chest, fingers spread out and facing downwards.
2. Bring your hands up to your chest, then quickly pull them away from your body, while making a tense facial expression to convey fear or anxiety.
3. Focus on your non-manual features, raising your eyebrows and widening your eyes to express panic.
4. Optionally, you can add a shaking motion with your hands as if representing the physical sensations that can accompany a panic attack.

Common Mistakes

• Forgetting to include non-manual features, which are crucial for conveying the emotion of the sign.
• Using incorrect hand shapes or positions, which can change the meaning of the sign.
• Rushing through the sign without properly expressing the panic through facial expressions.

BSL vs ASL

In BSL, the sign for “panic attacks” focuses on facial expressions and hand movements that reflect the intensity of the experience. In contrast, ASL may have a different sign that emphasizes different aspects of anxiety, showcasing the distinct linguistic structures of each sign language.

Related Signs

• Anxiety – A sign for general feelings of worry or unease.
• Depression – Represents feelings of sadness or low mood.
• Health – Refers to overall well-being, including mental health.
• Support – Sign for assistance or help, which can be relevant in discussions about mental health.
• Emotion – A sign encompassing various feelings, including anxiety and panic.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I use “panic attacks” in a BSL sentence?

You can structure your sentence as: “Panic attacks – I feel scared.” Remember to use appropriate facial expressions.

Are there regional variations in the sign for “panic attacks”?

While the sign is generally understood, some areas may have slight variations in handshape or movement, so it’s beneficial to learn from local signers.

What are some similar signs to “panic attacks”?

Signs such as “anxiety” and “stress” convey related concepts and can be used in discussion about mental health.

What tips can you give for learning this sign?

Practice in front of a mirror to ensure your facial expressions match the emotion. Also, ask for feedback from Deaf friends or teachers.

Is there a specific context where this sign is often used?

This sign is often used in mental health discussions or when sharing personal experiences with anxiety.

Can I use this sign in formal settings?

Yes, but be mindful of your expressions and ensure the context is appropriate for discussing mental health.