Panic Disorder
Are you feeling constantly anxious? A rush is unstoppable through your nerves? Do you feel fear now and then? If any answer is yes to the previous questions, it is high time to talk about this. Panic Disorder may be the reason behind this feeling.
Adulthood is not easy. And, if you see your peers are enjoying it, know that everyone is not the same. Every finger on your hand is not the same. Most importantly, know that a problem can be measured with tape. So, stop convincing yourself that “My problem is not big enough to have a panic disorder“.
What is Panic Disorder?
As the name suggests, a mental health issue that overwhelms one to experience fear or panic even in a non-threatening situation. This results in a disorder when the definite person loses control over the situation due to unexplainable fear. Panic disorder has frequent panic attacks.
Not to mention, people who suffer from this disease remain untreated because of a lack of knowledge, most of the time. Usually, people constantly worry about their upcoming panic attacks and fail to live a happy life.
Read Also: Mental Health 101: A Safe Space to Understand, Heal, and Grow
What are the Signs and Symptoms of Panic Disorder?
During a panic attack, one may feel both physical and emotional symptoms. Usually, the panic attack duration stands for 2- 20 minutes. However, some patients experience it a lot longer than that due to their panic disorder.
Some signs and symptoms are
- Shortness of breath
- Dizziness
- Stiff muscles
- A faster heartbeat
- Nausea
- Chest pain
- Vomiting
- Sweating or having chills
- Hot flushes
- Feeling the loss of control
- A fear of dying
- Dry mouth
- Upset stomach
- Fear of losing control
Understand that the above signs are very common and may be felt in other medical cases also. Not only that, but one single person may not feel every symptom at once or ever. The number of attacks one feels depends on the condition’s severity.
Panic Disorder vs Panic Attack
You might be wondering if panic disorder and panic order are the same, since in the above text we are using both terms explicitly. Well, you are not entirely wrong, and your confusion is justified. Panic attacks are short episodes of panic disorder. So, what does it mean?
It means, if remains untreated, panic attacks may lead to panic disorder over time. Theoretically speaking, a panic disorder is a long-term event of multiple panic attacks. On the other hand, a panic attack is “an abrupt surge of intense fear or discomfort” reaching a peak within minutes
National Library of Medicine
Also Read: 5 Effective Ways to Deal with Trauma
Medication and Treatment
Though we don’t want to scare you, the harsh truth is that no specific medication can completely cure panic disorder. So, do I mean that medication is hopeless? No, certainly not. Panic disorder can be managed and reduced over time. Medications may not work as antibiotic does in the case of cough and flu. But, there is still light at the end of the tunnel.
A few options for Panic Disorder Treatment are
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)
Now, I understand that even in 2024, talking to a professional about your emotional problem is still a stigma. But it helps if you talk. In CBT, your therapist creates a comfortable space for you to open up and talk about your fears. You feel heard, and they teach you how to react towards your fears. Again, it may take time, but don’t lose hope.
Medication
As I have mentioned earlier, medication is helpful, but for long-term treatment, it may not work for everyone. Given these points, some prescribed medication from professionals is:
- Anti-depressants like Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs)
- Anti-epileptics like pregabalin
A small tip is to be patient while using these medicines since it takes 2-4 weeks to start working correctly.
Panic Disorder Among Adults
To understand the severity of panic attacks among adults, you can refer to the recent research conducted by the NIH.
During recent research, it has been established that 32.3% of adults have experienced depressive disorder and 35% of adults have experienced panic disorder in their lifetime. The number is not only shocking but also concerning to the government. More importantly, though many organisations, institutes and corporations are coming forward to take a step on mental health disorders, cases are still rising.
Many adults are committing suicide, feeling left out, and going into depression every day due to a lack of awareness and support. Adults are keeping themselves in a fictional cage in fear of being judged. It is time to change that.
Learn more
Please know that it is never too late. If you are in doubt that you might have a panic attack, immediately contact a professional. Panic Disorder is not a disease, and it is not shameful to have one. In the fast-paced world, it may be hard to keep up, but you’ve got it!
Before you go, quickly go through the options you can try at home during a panic attack
Believe the following steps
- There is enough air to breathe and do breathing exercises. You find yourself comfortable with only in and out breaths.
- What you are feeling is vali,d and this attack will pass
- Try to remember a happy memory (determine previously what it would be in case you are experiencing this attack again and again)
And, remember, it is not life-threatening. It may seem like one, but in reality, it is not. Sometimes, it is difficult to help yourself, so ask for it when necessary.
Good luck!
FAQs
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What is the difference between a panic attack and an anxiety attack?
A panic attack is a sudden, intense episode of fear with physical symptoms like rapid heartbeat, chest pain, and dizziness. It peaks within minutes and often occurs unexpectedly. An anxiety attack, on the other hand, builds up gradually and is triggered by stress or worry, with symptoms like restlessness and muscle tension. -
Is a panic attack dangerous?
Panic attacks themselves are not dangerous but can be distressing. They do not cause physical harm, but frequent attacks may indicate an anxiety disorder that requires medical attention. -
What are the treatments for panic disorder?
Treatments include therapy (such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), medication (such as SSRIs and benzodiazepines), and lifestyle changes like regular exercise, stress management, and breathing exercises. -
What medications are used for panic disorder?
Common medications include selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) like sertraline, serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs) like venlafaxine, and benzodiazepines like alprazolam, which are used for short-term relief. -
What are the symptoms of panic attacks in women?
Women experience symptoms like rapid heartbeat, shortness of breath, dizziness, nausea, chest pain, hot flashes, and an overwhelming sense of fear. Hormonal fluctuations can also play a role in the frequency and severity of attacks. -
How can you stop panic attacks forever?
While completely preventing panic attacks may not be possible, strategies like therapy, medication, mindfulness, deep breathing exercises, avoiding caffeine and alcohol, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle can significantly reduce their frequency. -
What causes panic disorder?
Panic disorder can be caused by genetics, imbalances in brain chemicals, traumatic experiences, chronic stress, and certain medical conditions. It often develops in late teens or early adulthood. -
How is panic disorder diagnosed?
Panic disorder is diagnosed through clinical evaluation, which includes discussing symptoms, medical history, and psychological assessments. Doctors may also conduct tests to rule out medical conditions that mimic panic symptoms.
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