Panic Disorder
If you experience recurring panic attacks when there is no legitimate danger, followed by a paralyzing sense of anxiety about having another episode or the meaning behind your fear, you may suffer from panic disorder. Panic disorder is an anxiety disorder characterized by chronic panic attacks that may last for several minutes and, if untreated, symptoms can progressively worsen and adversely impact every area of your life. Panic attacks are often unexpected and can occur at any time, even during sleep.
The exact causes of panic disorder are not fully understood, but it is believed to be a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Stressors, such as a traumatic event or significant life changes, can trigger the onset of panic disorder in some individuals.
Without treatment, people with panic disorder may develop specific phobias, depression, substance abuse problems and suicidal thoughts; panic disorder can eventually lead to problems at work or school, which can further lead to issues with family, friends and finances.
Therapy, such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), is proven effective to treat panic disorder. CBT is a practical, solution-oriented treatment that helps people with panic disorder understand that the triggers for their panic attacks are not threatening, and to overcome fears of the situations they avoid. CBT for panic disorder includes mindfulness and breathing training, learning to experience situations that you have avoided due to panic, and learning to relax into physical sensations that you have become fearful of (like heart palpitations). As with much of our work treating mood and anxiety disorders, we explore areas of enjoyment and avoidance to help our clients re-engage and live more fulfilling lives.
Characteristics of Panic Attacks
People with panic disorder are prone to sudden episodes of fear even when there is no apparent cause for alarm; this intense anxiety triggers both cognitive and physical reactions that often include:
Rapid heart rate
Chest pain or sensation of a heart attack
Perspiration
Shaking
Shortness of breath or hyperventilation
Difficulty swallowing
Nausea
Dizziness
Lightheadedness
Chills
Hot flashes
Detachment from reality
Worries about impending danger or death
Fears of “going crazy”
Panic Disorder and Agoraphobia
Panic attacks and panic disorder often lead to agoraphobia, an anxiety disorder which causes people to avoid places and situations that may make them feel helpless or unsafe.
Those with panic disorder frequently develop agoraphobic responses to environments in which they have experienced panic attacks. Individuals with panic disorder and agoraphobia often feel trapped by their anxieties and may withdraw socially or fear leaving their homes.
Panic Disorder Complications and Treatment
Panic disorder can be difficult to manage on your own. Without treatment, people with panic disorder may develop specific phobias, depression, substance abuse problems and suicidal thoughts; panic disorder can eventually lead to problems at work or school, which can further lead to issues with family, friends and finances.
Panic disorder and related conditions such as agoraphobia can be successfully managed with CBT. Cognitive-behavioral therapy is a practical, solution-oriented treatment that helps people with panic disorder understand that the triggers for their panic attacks are not threatening, and to overcome fears of the situations they avoid. CBT for panic disorder includes mindfulness and breathing training, learning to experience situations that you have avoided due to panic, and learning to relax into physical sensations that you have become fearful of (like heart palpitations).
