Treating Panic Disorder

What Is Panic Disorder?

Does panic overwhelm you? Living in constant fear of the next panic attack can create a cycle of anxiety and avoidance, making life more challenging and less rewarding. 

Panic disorder is a complex and multifaceted mental health condition that affects how people feel, think, and behave. It’s characterized by sudden and repeated episodes of intense fear or discomfort, known as panic attacks. These can cause significant distress and impairment in daily life and can be associated with a range of physical and psychological symptoms.

An anxiety attack or panic attack can occur out of the blue, without warning, and can be triggered by a wide variety of situations or stimuli, such as crowds, enclosed spaces, or specific thoughts or memories. Panic disorder is often accompanied by other mental health conditions, such as depression, generalized anxiety disorder, or post-traumatic stress disorder.

There are several different types of panic disorder we’ve encountered at Neurish, each with its own set of symptoms and challenges. Panic disorder with agoraphobia, for example, is characterized by a fear of being in places or situations where escape might be difficult, or help might not be available in the event of a panic attack. Panic attacks may also be caused by an underlying medical condition, such as heart disease or thyroid problems.

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Causes of Panic Disorder

The exact causes of panic disorder are not fully understood, but it is believed to be a combination of genetic, biological, and environmental factors. Some research suggests that changes in brain function and chemistry may contribute to the development of panic disorder. Panic disorder may also be related to other mental health conditions such as depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Other risk factors for panic disorder include a history of trauma or abuse, a family history of anxiety or panic disorder, and significant life stressors, such as divorce or the death of a loved one.

Symptoms of Panic Disorder

Symptoms of panic disorder can be both physical, emotional, and psychological. People with panic disorder often experience intense and overwhelming feelings of fear, dread, or terror. These feelings can be accompanied by a range of physical symptoms, such as rapid heartbeat, sweating, trembling, chest pain, and difficulty breathing. Panic attacks can be so severe that individuals may feel like they are having a heart attack or going crazy.

In addition to physical symptoms, panic disorder can also cause psychological symptoms such as fear of losing control or dying, and a feeling of detachment from reality. These symptoms can cause significant distress and impairment in daily life and can lead to avoidance of certain situations or activities.

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Treatments for Panic Disorder at Our California Mental Health Facilities

There are several effective treatments for panic disorder at our Orange County mental health facility, including therapy, medication, relaxation techniques, and lifestyle changes.

  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): CBT is a type of therapy that helps individuals recognize and change negative thought patterns and behaviors related to panic disorder. This therapy can help individuals learn coping skills to manage their symptoms.
  • Exposure Therapy: Exposure therapy involves gradually exposing individuals to the situations or objects that trigger their panic attacks. The goal of this therapy is to help individuals become desensitized to their triggers and reduce their symptoms.
  • Medications: Antidepressants, benzodiazepines, and beta-blockers are commonly used medications to treat panic disorder. These medications can help reduce the severity and frequency of panic attacks.
  • Relaxation Techniques: Deep breathing, progressive muscle relaxation, and other relaxation techniques can help individuals manage their panic symptoms.
  • Lifestyle Changes: Eating a healthy diet, getting regular exercise, and minimizing stress can also help individuals manage their panic disorder.

Get Help for Panic Disorder at Our Luxury Mental Health Facility

If you or someone you know is struggling with panic disorder, it is important to seek professional help. Talk to a healthcare provider at our mental health facilities in California to learn more about treatment options and get the help you need. Remember that panic disorder is a treatable condition, and with the right treatment, many individuals with panic disorder are able to overcome their symptoms and achieve long-term recovery. Seeking help for panic disorder is a sign of strength, not weakness, and can regain control of your life and achieve your goals and aspirations.

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FAQs About Panic Disorder

What is Panic Disorder?

Panic Disorder is a type of anxiety disorder characterized by recurrent and unexpected panic attacks. These attacks involve sudden periods of intense fear or discomfort that peak within minutes, accompanied by physical and cognitive symptoms.

What are the symptoms of Panic Disorder?

Symptoms of Panic Disorder include:

  • Panic attacks: Sudden episodes of intense fear that trigger severe physical reactions when there is no real danger.
  • Physical symptoms: Heart palpitations, sweating, trembling, shortness of breath, chest pain, nausea, dizziness, and chills or hot flashes.

Cognitive symptoms: Feelings of unreality, fear of losing control or “going crazy,” and fear of dying.

What are panic attacks?

Panic attacks are sudden and intense surges of fear, anxiety, or discomfort that reach a peak within minutes. During a panic attack, individuals may experience physical symptoms such as a pounding heart, sweating, trembling, shortness of breath, chest pain, and dizziness.

What are the common panic attack symptoms?

Common symptoms of a panic attack include:

  • Rapid heart rate
  • Sweating
  • Trembling or shaking
  • Shortness of breath or a feeling of being smothered
  • Chest pain or discomfort
  • Nausea or abdominal distress
  • Dizziness or lightheadedness
  • Chills or hot flashes
  • Numbness or tingling sensations
What causes someone to develop Panic Disorder?

The exact cause of Panic Disorder is unknown, but it is believed to be a combination of genetic, biological, environmental, and psychological factors. Family history, major stress, and certain changes in brain function may increase the risk of developing Panic Disorder.

How are panic disorders different from general anxiety disorders?

Panic Disorders specifically involve repeated panic attacks and a persistent concern about having more attacks or their consequences. General Anxiety Disorders (GAD) are characterized by excessive, uncontrollable worry about various aspects of life, without the intense, sudden episodes of fear seen in Panic Disorders.

Can panic attacks occur unexpectedly?

Yes, panic attacks can occur unexpectedly, without any obvious trigger. These unexpected panic attacks can be especially distressing and can lead individuals to worry about when the next attack might occur, contributing to a cycle of fear and avoidance.

What are the treatment options for Panic Disorder?

Treatment options for Panic Disorder include:

  • Psychotherapy: Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is particularly effective in helping individuals understand and change the thought patterns that lead to panic attacks.
  • Medications: Antidepressants and anti-anxiety medications can help manage symptoms.

Lifestyle changes: Regular physical activity, stress management techniques, and avoiding caffeine and alcohol can help reduce the frequency and severity of panic attacks.

How does Panic Disorder impact daily life?

Panic Disorder can significantly impact daily life, making it difficult to perform routine activities. The intense fear of having another panic attack can lead to avoidance behaviors, social isolation, and difficulties at work or in personal relationships.

When should someone seek help for Panic Disorder?

If you experience repeated panic attacks, persistent fear of having another attack, or if the attacks interfere with your daily life, it is important to seek help from a mental health professional. Early intervention can improve outcomes and help you regain control over your life.

Sources:

American Psychiatric Association. (2022). Diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders (5th ed., text rev.).

National Institute of Mental Health. (2022). Panic Disorder: When Fear Overwhelms. 

Mayo Clinic. (2018). Panic attacks and panic disorder

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