Panic Disorder
Panic disorder involves sudden, intense episodes of fear, panic attacks, that peak within minutes and can include a racing heart, shortness of breath, chest tightness, dizziness, or a feeling of losing control, often without any clear trigger. Living with panic disorder often means also living with a fear of the next attack, which can become just as limiting as the attacks themselves.
How is a panic attack different from just feeling anxious?
A panic attack is more sudden and intense than typical anxiety, usually peaking within about ten minutes, with physical symptoms strong enough that some people initially mistake it for a medical emergency like a heart attack.
Do panic attacks always have an obvious trigger?
No, and that unpredictability is part of what makes panic disorder distressing. Attacks can happen without any clear cause, which often leads to anxiety about when the next one will occur.
What treatment options are available?
Medication, often certain antidepressants or short-term anti-anxiety medication, can reduce frequency and intensity. Therapy, particularly approaches that address the fear of the attacks themselves, is also highly effective, often used alongside medication.
