The trick is that extremely acidic or strong food automatically causes the brain to focus more on the present. Something that thus stops the spiral of fear.
– There is definitely truth and science behind eating sour or spicy sweets to relieve anxiety and panic attacks, says therapist Catherine Del Toro.
Viral on Tiktok
The video on the social media platform has received over two million views and many Tiktok users write that they have also tested the method.
“I drink shots of lemon juice. It works!”, writes one user.
“My psychologist recommends everything that is acidic,” writes another.
The tip is supported by psychologists
The tip is now also supported by the majority of psychologists, write USA Today.
– It’s a wonderful ‘therapy trick’ that’s practical because you can carry sour candy with you anywhere, says Catherine Del Toro.
Psychotherapist Stephanie Sarkis also tells the newspaper that sour candy is not the only distraction that can interrupt panic attacks.
She suggests deep breathing, crafts, yoga, touching your thumb to each finger and noticing three things you can see, feel and hear, as well as other mindfulness strategies.
She also notes that distractions become less effective as you become more accustomed to them. Therefore, it may be good to change them.