Panic Disorder
Panic Disorder is a condition where a person experiences unexpected and repeated panic attacks. A panic attack is a sudden surge of intense fear or discomfort that reaches its peak within minutes and often comes on without warning. During a panic attack, people may feel physical symptoms such as a racing heart, shortness of breath, sweating, dizziness, or even a feeling of losing control.
​
These symptoms can feel overwhelming and frightening, sometimes leading people to avoid situations where they fear an attack might happen. The fear of having more attacks and the impact this has on daily life can contribute to the cycle of panic disorder.
It's important to know that panic attacks are not dangerous and typically last only a few minutes, though they can feel intense. Panic disorder can be effectively managed with treatment, including therapy, medication, and lifestyle strategies, to help reduce both the frequency of attacks and the fear associated with them.
Why Treating Panic Disorder is Important
Panic Disorder is a condition where a person experiences unexpected and repeated panic attacks. A panic attack is a sudden surge of intense fear or discomfort that reaches its peak within minutes and often comes on without warning. During a panic attack, people may feel physical symptoms such as a racing heart, shortness of breath, sweating, dizziness, or even a feeling of losing control. These symptoms can feel overwhelming and frightening, sometimes leading people to avoid situations where they fear an attack might happen. ​
​
Panic disorder can contribute to a range of health issues beyond the panic attacks themselves, making treatment especially important. The chronic stress associated with frequent panic attacks can strain the cardiovascular system, potentially increasing the risk of heart disease or high blood pressure. Sleep disturbances are also common, as the fear of an attack may lead to insomnia or restless nights, impacting energy and mood. Digestive issues like irritable bowel syndrome or acid reflux may worsen with ongoing anxiety, and respiratory problems can be aggravated by hyperventilation or shortness of breath during attacks. The emotional toll of panic disorder can lead to chronic fatigue and may increase the likelihood of developing other mental health concerns, such as depression, generalized anxiety, or substance use disorders. Treating panic disorder helps prevent these complications, supporting both mental and physical health.
Diagnosis of Panic Disorder
Panic Disorder is diagnosed through a thorough evaluation by a mental health professional, which begins with an in-depth interview to assess symptoms like sudden, intense panic attacks accompanied by physical sensations such as a racing heart, shortness of breath, and dizziness. For a diagnosis, these attacks must be recurrent and cause persistent concern about future episodes or avoidance behaviors. Clinicians may use standardized tools, like the Panic Disorder Severity Scale (PDSS), and may order medical tests to rule out other physical causes, such as heart or thyroid conditions.
​
This diagnostic process enables providers to confirm panic disorder and create a treatment plan tailored to the individual's needs, often involving therapy, medication, or a combination of both.
Symptoms of Panic Disorder
-
Sudden onset of intense fear or discomfort
-
Palpitations or rapid heart rate
-
Shortness of breath or hyperventilation
-
Sweating or chills
-
Dizziness, lightheadedness, or nausea
-
Feelings of choking or loss of control
Treatment for Panic Disorder
Treatment for Panic Disorder typically involves a combination of medication management and psychotherapy, as both approaches have been shown to be effective in reducing symptoms and preventing future attacks.
​
Medication is often used to help manage panic symptoms, especially if attacks are frequent or severe. Commonly prescribed medications include:
​
-
SSRIs (e.g., sertraline, fluoxetine), which are typically first-line treatments that help reduce panic symptoms by balancing serotonin levels.
-
Benzodiazepines (e.g., alprazolam, clonazepam) may also be prescribed for short-term relief due to their calming effects, though they are generally used cautiously due to potential dependence.
​​
Therapy is a central part of treatment for panic disorder, and the following approaches are commonly used:
​
-
Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) – This is the most widely recommended therapy for panic disorder. CBT helps individuals identify and challenge unhelpful thoughts that contribute to panic attacks. Techniques include exposure exercises that safely expose patients to the physical sensations of panic to reduce their fear over time.
-
Exposure Therapy – Often a part of CBT, exposure therapy gradually introduces feared situations or physical sensations associated with panic, helping individuals learn that these feelings are not harmful and can be tolerated.
-
Mindfulness-Based Therapy – Mindfulness practices help individuals stay present during times of anxiety, reducing the focus on catastrophic thoughts and teaching skills for grounding themselves during a panic attack.
-
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) – ACT encourages people to accept their anxious thoughts and feelings without reacting to them, focusing instead on living in alignment with personal values.
​​
In addition to therapy and medication, non-pharmacological approaches are often recommended to support panic disorder recovery:
​
-
Relaxation techniques like deep breathing or progressive muscle relaxation
-
Regular exercise to reduce stress and boost overall mood
-
Sleep hygiene practices to improve rest and resilience
-
Support groups for shared experiences and encouragement
Risk Factors for Panic Disorder
Complications of Panic Disorder
-
Agoraphobia
-
Depression
-
Substance abuse
-
Impaired relationships and work performance
-
Social isolation
-
Interference with physical activities
-
Physical health issues like increased blood pressure
Resources for Panic Disorder
Recognizing and treating Panic Disorder is essential, as it impacts not only a person’s mental health but also their physical well-being, relationships, and overall quality of life. Untreated panic disorder can lead to a cycle of fear and avoidance, potentially resulting in isolation, increased anxiety, and other mental health complications, including depression and substance use. Early diagnosis and effective treatment improve the chances of managing symptoms successfully, helping individuals regain control, reduce distress, and restore a sense of freedom and confidence in their daily lives.
​
If you or someone you know needs support for panic disorder, Click here for resources for panic disorder. You can also​ Click here to schedule a free 15-minute consultation and find out how Lucent Psych can help you address your symptoms and learn healthy coping strategies.