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. A 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 in your hands is not the same. Most importantly, know that a problem can be measured with tape. So, stop convincing yourself that “My problem is not that big 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.
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 of 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 disorders. 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
Medication and Treatment
Though we don’t want to scare you, the harsh truth is no specific medication can completely cure panic disorder. So, do I mean, that medication is hopeless? No, certainly not. Because panic disorder can be managed and reduced over time. Medications may not work as antibiotic does in 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 Behavioral 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 are
- Anti-depressants like Sensitive Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs)
- Anti-epilepsy like pregabalin
A small tip is to keep patience 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 NIH.
During recent research, it has been established that 32.3% of adults have experienced depressive disorder and 35% of adults experience panic disorder in their lifetime. The number is not only shocking but 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 judging. 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 valid 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!
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