Panic disorder involves recurrent, unexpected panic attacks along with persistent worry about having future attacks, often leading to significant lifestyle changes to avoid triggering situations.
What a Panic Attack Feels Like
Panic attacks typically peak within minutes and can include a racing heart, chest tightness, shortness of breath, dizziness, and an intense fear of losing control or dying, despite no actual physical danger.
Why Panic Attacks Happen
Panic attacks involve the body’s fight-or-flight response activating without a real external threat, often triggered by stress, certain physical sensations, or specific situations associated with past attacks.
Breaking the Fear-of-Fear Cycle
Many people with panic disorder develop anxiety about the attacks themselves, which can paradoxically increase their frequency. Treatment often focuses on breaking this cycle directly.
Effective Treatments
CBT, particularly interoceptive exposure techniques that help people become less fearful of physical sensations, along with medication when appropriate, are well-supported treatments for panic disorder.
Final Thoughts
Panic disorder is highly treatable, and most people see significant improvement with proper treatment. If panic attacks are limiting your life, a mental health professional can help.