Being diagnosed with panic disorder can be disconcerting if you aren’t familiar with the causes or symptoms. After you’ve sought help from a professional psychologist, take some time to educate yourself about this anxiety disorder. The more knowledgeable you are about your diagnosis, the more confident you’ll be during treatment.

Common Questions About Panic Disorder

What is panic disorder?

Panic disorder is characterized by repeated panic attacks with sudden and unexpected onsets. These can happen anytime and anywhere, leading to increased anxiety and preoccupation with the possibility of the next attack. About 2 to 3% of people suffer from panic disorder in the U.S. and Europe per year. The first symptoms often present themselves in late teenage years or early adulthood.

What are some of the symptoms of panic disorder?

In addition to a sudden feeling of anxiety, terror, and loss of control, panic attacks are often accompanied by acute physical symptoms. Some of the most common include an accelerated heart rate, shaking, chills, sweating, stomach or chest pains, shortness of breath, and lightheadedness. Contact a psychologist as soon as possible if you think you have the symptoms of panic disorder.

What causes panic disorder?

Unfortunately, it isn’t clear what exactly causes panic disorder. It is known that the disorder is more common in women than men and that it sometimes runs in families. Researchers are currently investigating environmental and stress factors that may play a part. However, further research is needed to find the true cause of this disorder.

What are your treatment options?

A combination of psychotherapy and medication is a typical treatment plan for patients with panic disorder. Cognitive behavioral therapy is excellent for helping you learn different ways to think and react during panic attacks. New coping skills paired with a prescription for Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs), Selective Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitors (SNRIs), or Benzodiazepines can help reduce the number and severity of panic attacks that you suffer. The most important thing that you can do is seek the help of a psychologist that will help you create a custom treatment plan.

Get a personalized treatment plan for your panic disorder from a board-certified psychologist by contacting Feinberg & Associates in Lexington, KY. With more than 25 years of experience in clinical psychology, David Feinberg, Ph.D. and his team provide expert counseling services. Set your appointment by calling Dr. Feinberg’s office at (859) 233-3390. You can also visit the website to learn more about the range of mental health services you’ll find at this practice.