Panic disorder is a mental health condition characterized by recurrent, unexpected panic attacks. A panic attack is a sudden, overwhelming episode of intense fear or discomfort that typically lasts for several minutes. People may experience physical symptoms such as a pounding heart, shortness of breath, sweating, trembling, chest pain, nausea, or dizziness. They may also experience cognitive symptoms such as fear of losing control, fear of dying, or feeling detached from themselves or their surroundings.
Panic disorder is a common condition, affecting approximately 6% of the US population. It is more common in women than in men and typically begins in early adulthood. People with panic disorder may avoid situations that they fear might trigger a panic attack, which can lead to significant impairment in their social, occupational, or other areas of functioning.
Causes of Panic Disorder
The exact cause of panic disorder is unknown, but it is thought to be caused by a combination of genetic, psychological, and environmental factors. Some of the risk factors for panic disorder include:
- Family history of panic disorder
- Certain personality traits, such as anxiety sensitivity
- Experiencing a traumatic event
- Substance abuse
- Certain medical conditions, such as hyperthyroidism
Symptoms of Panic Disorder
The primary symptom of panic disorder is recurrent, unexpected panic attacks. Panic attacks can occur at any time, even during sleep. They typically reach their peak intensity within 10 minutes and subside within 30 minutes.
In addition to the physical and cognitive symptoms mentioned above, people with panic disorder may also experience:
- Fear of having another panic attack
- Avoidance of situations that they fear might trigger a panic attack
- Difficulty concentrating
- Irritability
- Fatigue
Diagnosis of Panic Disorder
Panic disorder is diagnosed based on a clinical evaluation by a mental health professional. The clinician will ask about the person’s symptoms, including the frequency, duration, and intensity of their panic attacks. They will also ask about the person’s medical history and any other factors that may be contributing to their panic disorder.
Treatment of Panic Disorder
Panic disorder is a treatable condition. There are a number of effective treatments available, including:
- Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) CBT helps people to identify and change the negative thoughts and behaviors that contribute to their panic disorder.
- Medication Antidepressants and anti-anxiety medications can be effective in reducing the frequency and severity of panic attacks.
- Lifestyle changes Making healthy lifestyle changes, such as getting regular exercise, eating a healthy diet, and getting enough sleep, can help to reduce stress and anxiety and improve overall mental health.
Prognosis of Panic Disorder
With treatment, most people with panic disorder can manage their symptoms and live full and productive lives. However, panic disorder is a chronic condition and there is a risk of relapse. People who have experienced panic disorder in the past should be aware of the signs and symptoms of a relapse and should seek treatment if they experience any of these symptoms.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
There are a number of common mistakes that people with panic disorder make that can make their symptoms worse. These mistakes include:
- Avoiding situations that they fear might trigger a panic attack This can lead to social isolation and make it more difficult to manage their panic disorder.
- Using alcohol or drugs to self-medicate Alcohol and drugs can worsen panic disorder symptoms in the long run.
- Giving up on treatment Treatment for panic disorder can take time and effort, but it is important to stick with it. Giving up on treatment can lead to a relapse.
Resources for People with Panic Disorder
There are a number of resources available for people with panic disorder. These resources include:
- The National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) NIMH provides information about panic disorder, including symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment.
- The Anxiety and Depression Association of America (ADAA) ADAA provides information about panic disorder and other anxiety disorders, as well as a directory of mental health professionals who specialize in treating anxiety disorders.
- The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) NAMI provides information about panic disorder and other mental illnesses, as well as support groups for people with mental illness and their families.
