Panic Disorder

What is Panic Disorder?

Panic disorder is an anxiety disorder characterized by recurring and unexpected panic attacks. These attacks involve sudden surges of overwhelming fear or discomfort, often with no apparent cause, and are accompanied by physical symptoms such as heart palpitations, sweating, shaking, shortness of breath, and dizziness. The fear of having more panic attacks can lead to avoidance behaviors and significant disruptions in daily life.

Symptoms of Panic Attacks:

  • Sudden, overwhelming fear or anxiety

  • Racing or pounding heart

  • Sweating or chills

  • Trembling or shaking

  • Difficulty breathing or a feeling of being smothered

  • Chest pain or discomfort

  • Dizziness or lightheadedness

  • Nausea or abdominal distress

  • Feeling of unreality or detachment

  • Fear of losing control or going crazy

  • Fear of dying

Causes of Panic Disorder:

The exact cause of panic disorder is unknown, but it is thought to involve a combination of genetic, biological, and environmental factors. These may include:

  • A family history of panic disorder or other anxiety disorders

  • Significant life stress or trauma

  • Brain chemistry imbalances, including abnormal neurotransmitter activity

  • Personality traits, such as sensitivity to stress

Types of Panic Attacks:

  • Expected Panic Attacks: These occur in response to a known trigger, such as a specific situation (e.g., public speaking or crowded spaces).

  • Unexpected Panic Attacks: These happen without a clear or identifiable trigger, making them more distressing and unpredictable.

What to Expect from Panic Disorder Treatment:

Panic disorder is highly treatable, and most individuals experience significant improvements with proper short term care. Treatment includes:

  • Interoceptive Exposure: A specific form of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) that has been shown to be helpful for clients with panic disorder. Interoceptive exposure is a psychological treatment that involves slowly and gradually recreating feared physical sensations to help people face their fears.

  • ACT: ACT teaches people how to live big purposeful lives with uncomfortable sensations. ACT helps clients with Panic Disorders by addressing how they respond to panic attacks and anxiety symptoms, focusing on acceptance and behavioral flexibility rather than trying to avoid or control panic sensations.

  • Medications: In some cases, medication such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), benzodiazepines, or beta-blockers may be prescribed to help manage symptoms.

What to Look for in a Therapist for Panic Disorder:

When seeking treatment for panic disorder, it's important to find a licensed therapist with experience in treating anxiety disorders, particularly panic disorders using evidence based treatments such as Interceptive Exposures and ACT.

Consider asking potential therapists:

  • How do you approach treating panic disorder?

  • Do you use Evidence-Based Treatments?

  • How long does treatment typically last?

  • What can I expect during a session?

What to expect:

Panic disorder is highly treatable and many clients experience significant improvements within ten sessions.

Prevalence of Panic Disorder:

  • Panic disorder affects about 2-3% of adults in the U.S.

  • Women are twice as likely as men to develop panic disorder.

  • Panic disorder often begins in late adolescence or early adulthood.

Living with Panic Disorder:

Living with panic disorder can be challenging, but with the right treatment, individuals can manage symptoms and live fulfilling lives. Learning to manage panic attacks through therapy, practicing relaxation techniques, and avoiding avoidance behaviors are crucial steps toward regaining control.