When Panic Happens

“A must-read for those who are stressed or anxious, or those who are near the stressed and anxious, which is to say, all of us. Drawing from everything from Descartes to polyvagal theory to Zelda, Charles Schaeffer’s approach is as entertaining as it is informative. It is not an overstatement to say that this work will change lives."
—Mary Pilon, New York Times bestselling author of The Monopolists, The Kevin Show, and The Longest Race ~Mary Pilon

“Charles Schaeffer has broken important ground in synthesizing polyvagal theory and cutting-edge neuroscience with concrete applications of techniques that give people experiencing panic the tools to better understand themselves, manage their issues, and thrive. Learning more about the power of how you relate to yourself in an interpersonal context translates to a superpower, and this book gives you the recipe to make the transformation!"
—Daniel Singley, PhD, founding director of the Center for Men’s Excellence, and coauthor of Parental Mental Health ~Daniel Singley, PhD

“Polyvagal theory sheds light on the disconnect between how we want to feel, and how our body compels us to feel. As is demonstrated in When Panic Happens, there are specific techniques that we can all employ to take control of our bodies and feelings. Having these tools at your disposal offers power and peace in a world that feels increasingly designed to overwhelm and stress us out."
—Seth Porges, coauthor of Our Polyvagal World ~Seth Porges

“At heart, a truly great therapist has all of the qualities of a gifted teacher. When Panic Happens establishes Charles Schaeffer as a great therapist and a gifted teacher. Polyvagal theory offers one of the best approaches to the treatment of anxiety and panic. The theory is complex, but through a powerful mix of careful research; crisp, clear-headed writing; humor; popular culture references; and well-designed, easily implemented exercises; Schaeffer makes the complex digestible. This is the resource every therapist wants and every person who has struggled with anxiety needs."
—Jacqueline Mattis, PhD, dean of the School of Arts and Sciences at Rutgers University-Newark, clinical psychologist by training, and author of more than fifty research articles ~Jacqueline Mattis, PhD