Panic Disorder

Panic disorders are sudden waves of fear, discomfort or losing control even when there is no danger/trigger. However, not everyone who experiences a panic attack will develop panic disorder. Common feelings panic disorders may bring:

• Sudden/repeated panic attacks of overwhelming anxiety and/or fear

• Feeling out of control

• A fear of death or impending doom during a panic attack

• An intense worry about when the next panic attack will happen

• A fear or avoidance of places where panic attacks have occurred in the past

Physical Symptoms Include:

• Pounding or racing heart

• Sweating

• Chills

• Trembling

• Difficulty breathing

• Weakness or dizziness

• Tingling or numb hands

• Chest pains

• Stomach pain or nausea

Panic disorders can run in the family, though specialists aren't exactly sure why. These disorders can affect different people based on how they handle things such as stress, or their environment. People often confuse panic attacks with panic disorders, though they are vastly different. Panic attacks are one-time or occasional attacks of intense fear. A panic disorder is when a person experiences recurring and unexpected panic attacks, and with continuous worry or behavioral changes because of the fear of future attacks.

• Panic disorders typically affect people from late teens to early adulthood

Treatment for panic disorders is typically psychotherapy and medication. Psychotherapy is a support based therapy where you talk with a professional about a fear to train your brain. By chatting with one of our qualified consultants, you will be able to talk about whatever it is your fear in a safe space, giving you maximum comfort. Medications may include antidepressants, beta-blockers and anti-anxiety medications, such as benzodiazepines which help regulate your brain, and make panic disorders become less frequent. Talk to a doctor if medication is the right treatment for you.