Panic disorder

Panic disorder is an anxiety disorder where you regularly have sudden attacks of panic or fear.

Everyone experiences feelings of anxiety and panic at certain times. It's a natural response to stressful or dangerous situations.

But someone with panic disorder has feelings of anxiety, stress and panic regularly and at any time, often for no apparent reason.

The good news is that with the right treatment and support, most people with Panic disorder can make a full recovery.  Please get in touch with us by clicking on the Self Refer button at the top of the website

How to tell if you have Panic Disorder?

Anxiety

Anxiety is a feeling of unease. It can range from mild to severe, and can include feelings of worry and fear. Panic is the most severe form of anxiety.

You may start to avoid certain situations because you fear they'll trigger another attack.

This can create a cycle of living "in fear of fear". It can add to your sense of panic and may cause you to have more attacks.

Panic attacks

During a panic attack you get a rush of intense mental and physical symptoms. It can come on very quickly and for no apparent reason.

A panic attack can be very frightening and distressing.

Symptoms include:

• a racing heartbeat
• feeling faint
• sweating
• nausea
• chest pain
• shortness of breath
• trembling
• hot flushes
• chills
• shaky limbs
• a choking sensation
• dizziness
• numbness or pins and needles
• dry mouth
• a feeling of dread or a fear of dying
• a churning stomach
• a tingling in your fingers
• eeling like you're not connected to your body

What causes Panic Disorder?

There are many different causes of anxiety, fear or panic and it's different for everyone.

When you're feeling anxious or scared, your body releases stress hormones, such as adrenaline and cortisol.

This can be helpful in some situations, but it might also cause physical symptoms such as an increased heart rate and increased sweating. In some people, it might cause a panic attack.

Identifying the cause

If you know what's causing anxiety, fear or panic, it might be easier to find ways to manage it.

Some examples of possible causes include:

• work – feeling pressure at work, unemployment or retirement
• family – relationship difficulties, divorce or caring for someone
• financial problems – unexpected bills or borrowing money
• health – illness, injury or losing someone (bereavement)
• difficult past experiences – bullying, abuse or neglect

Treating Panic Disorder

Treatment for Panic Disorder can help you to manage your symptoms, but it may take time.

The main treatments include:

• talking therapies – usually cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) with the support of a therapist, either by yourself or in a group
• medicines that can help to treat anxiety – usually a type of antidepressant called an SSRI
• referral to a community mental health team with a range of specialists who can help to create a treatment plan for you

Please get in touch with us by clicking on the Self Refer button at the top of the website to discuss your options