Meteorologist Nate Byrne, known for his work in Melbourne, Australia, experienced a sudden panic attack while delivering a weather forecast during News Breakfast on August 13th. The incident, caught on camera, highlighted the reality of panic attacks that can affect anyone, including those in high-pressure careers like broadcasting.

Byrne, during his segment, paused mid-forecast, stating, "Some of you may know that I occasionally get affected by some panic attacks and actually that's happening right now." He then handed over the segment to his co-host Lisa Millar, who reassured viewers that it was okay and mentioned Byrne's previous openness about his experiences with panic attacks.

The meteorologist later returned on camera, expressing gratitude towards his colleagues for their support during the unexpected incident. "Sorry if I gave anybody a bit of a scare there," Byrne said, acknowledging that his panic attack might have caused concern among viewers.

In an essay written in 2022, Byrne revealed that his first panic attack was triggered by live television, where he felt overwhelmed by the pressure and his brain reacted with a flight response due to insufficient oxygen supply caused by controlled breathing. To manage his condition, he sought professional help and found techniques like pressing his thumbnail into his finger during an episode as a distraction. However, panic attacks still occur occasionally for him.

Byrne emphasized the importance of open communication with colleagues about mental health challenges. He learned that sometimes, individuals may lose control over their brains, leading to unexpected panic attacks. This experience changed his perspective on mental health issues.

Similarly, digital creator Anthony Polcari shared his own experience of having a panic attack during a recent television appearance. Carson Daly, co-host of TODAY, has also been candid about his struggles with panic attacks, revealing that they stemmed from stress and anxiety. Daly was diagnosed with generalized anxiety disorder in 2018 and has since sought therapy, learned coping mechanisms like meditation and breath work, and utilized medication to manage his anxiety.

Panic attacks are characterized by an abrupt onset of intense fear or discomfort, often without an apparent reason. The body responds as if it is in danger, even though there is no actual threat. According to Todd Farchione, Ph.D., these attacks can be triggered by anxiety disorders or can occur independently. Some individuals may develop panic disorder, which involves frequent unexpected panic attacks.

Symptoms of panic attacks can include a racing heart, difficulty breathing, nausea, lightheadedness, shakiness, and tingling sensations in hands or lips. Individuals may also experience feelings of unreality or disconnection from their surroundings during an attack. Therapy can help identify triggers and teach coping strategies, while medications like anti-anxiety drugs, antidepressants, and beta blockers can be part of the treatment plan.

Dr. Ken Duckworth, medical director of the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), emphasized the importance of individuals sharing their experiences with panic attacks with loved ones and colleagues. This openness allows for support during unexpected episodes, as seen with Byrne's coworkers quickly taking over during his panic attack on camera.