What is a Panic Disorder?
Panic disorder is marked by repeated panic attacks characterized by moments of intense fear and discomfort that peak within minutes. These unexpected panic attacks can lead individuals to live in fear of losing control or experiencing a heart attack. Recognizing the symptoms of panic disorder is the first step toward effective management. At Halo Mental Health in Las Vegas, we specialize in the integrated treatment of panic and other anxiety disorders, helping you regain stability and confidence.
These panic attacks are intense periods of fear or discomfort where four or more of the following symptoms abruptly develop and reach a peak within minutes:
- Palpitations, pounding heart, or accelerated heart rate
- Sweating
- Trembling or shaking
- Sensations of shortness of breath or smothering
- Feelings of choking
- Chest pain or discomfort
- Nausea or abdominal distress
- Dizziness, light-headedness, or feeling faint
- Chills or heat sensations
- Numbness or tingling sensations
- Feelings of unreality or detachment from oneself
- Fear of losing control or “going crazy”
- Fear of dying
People may develop panic disorder when frequent and unexpected panic attacks instill a persistent worry about future attacks or change the individual’s behavior in an attempt to avoid them. The exact causes of panic disorder are not fully understood but are believed to involve a combination of genetic, environmental, and physical factors.
Getting panic disorder diagnosed typically involves a detailed evaluation by a mental health professional who will assess the symptoms reported and rule out other possible causes of distress, such as physical health issues or other mental health conditions. Once diagnosed, panic disorder is treated through a combination of psychotherapy, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and possibly medication, especially if the disorder is severe. Treatment aims to reduce or eliminate panic attack symptoms and help the individual regain control over their life, emphasizing strategies to manage and cope with symptoms when they arise.
Our Treatment Approach
At Halo Mental Health, we understand that each case of panic disorder is unique. Therefore, we offer a personalized treatment approach combining psychotherapy with medication management. This dual strategy ensures that panic disorder is treated comprehensively, addressing both the psychological and physiological aspects.
Psychotherapy Services
Our psychotherapy services are centered around Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), a highly effective treatment for those diagnosed with panic disorder. CBT works by changing thought patterns that contribute to the panic attacks and teaching practical techniques to manage and reduce symptoms. This therapy helps patients understand the triggers of their panic attacks and how to cope with them effectively.
Medication Management
For some patients, medication is a crucial component of their treatment plan. Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs) are commonly prescribed to alleviate the physical symptoms of panic disorder by regulating serotonin levels in the brain, thus reducing the frequency and intensity of panic attacks. Our skilled providers ensure that all medications are tailored to fit your specific needs.
Coordinated Care Model
Our coordinated care model is designed to ensure that patients receive seamless and efficient treatment for panic disorder and any other mental health conditions they may be dealing with. By having psychotherapy and medication assistance administered by interconnected providers within the same appointments, we maximize the effectiveness of your treatment and convenience.
Success Stories
Many of our patients have overcome their challenges with panic disorder through our comprehensive treatment programs. Success stories and anonymized case studies highlight the effectiveness of our approach and serve as a source of inspiration for those just starting their journey toward recovery.
Scheduling Your Appointment
Getting started with treatment at Halo Mental Health is straightforward. We guide you through the process of scheduling your initial appointment, where you will meet with a mental health professional to discuss your symptoms and treatment options. This initial consultation is a critical step in developing a personalized treatment plan tailored to your specific needs.
FAQs
Do you have questions about how panic disorder is diagnosed or treated? Our FAQ section addresses common concerns and provides additional information about what to expect during the treatment process. For more specific inquiries, our dedicated team is always ready to assist you.
Can you cure panic disorder?
While there is no absolute “cure” for panic disorder, it can be effectively managed and controlled. The goal of treatment is to significantly reduce or eliminate the symptoms so that the condition no longer interferes with your daily activities and quality of life. Through a combination of psychotherapy, medication, and lifestyle changes, many individuals diagnosed with panic disorder experience substantial improvement. It’s important to approach treatment as a continuous process, where adjustments might be necessary as different challenges arise.
How Is Panic Disorder Treated?
Panic disorder is treated through a combination of psychotherapy and medication. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is commonly used to help individuals identify and change thought patterns that contribute to panic attacks, while medications like selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) may be prescribed to help manage symptoms. This integrated approach aims to reduce the frequency and severity of panic attacks and improve overall functioning.
What are 5 signs of panic disorder?
- Recurrent and Unexpected Panic Attacks: Experiencing sudden and repeated episodes of intense fear or discomfort that peak within minutes without any apparent cause.
- Worry Over Additional Attacks: After having panic attacks, persistently worrying about having another attack or about the consequences of an attack, like losing control or “going crazy.”
- Avoidance of Situations: Avoiding places, situations, or behaviors they fear might precipitate a panic attack. This can significantly impact one’s daily functioning.
- Physical Symptoms During an Attack: Experiencing physical symptoms during a panic attack, such as heart palpitations, chest pain, shortness of breath, dizziness, or abdominal distress.
- Change in Behavior Due to the Attacks: Significant changes in behavior related to the attacks or persistent fear of having attacks (e.g., avoiding exercise or unfamiliar situations).
What is it like living with panic disorder?
Living with panic disorder can be challenging and often unpredictable. People with panic disorder may constantly feel tense or on edge, anticipating the next attack. The fear of an impending attack can lead to behavioral changes, such as avoiding places or situations where previous attacks have occurred. This avoidance can disrupt personal and professional life, leading to strained relationships and decreased performance at work or school. Additionally, individuals may develop other mental health conditions, such as depression or other anxiety disorders, due to the chronic stress of living with panic disorder.
How to deal with a panic disorder person?
- Stay Calm: During a panic attack, try to remain calm and reassure the person that they are not in physical danger, despite the frightening symptoms.
- Be Supportive: Understand that the person cannot control their panic attacks and that the symptoms are very real to them. Offer your presence and support, which can be comforting.
- Encourage Professional Help: Encourage them to seek help from a mental health professional who is experienced in treating panic disorder. Treatment is often necessary to manage symptoms effectively.
- Learn About Their Triggers: With their permission, learn about what triggers their panic attacks so you can help avoid these triggers or handle situations more effectively should symptoms begin.
- Support Their Treatment Plan: Be supportive of their treatment efforts, whether that includes attending therapy sessions with them (if appropriate), helping them manage their medication, or ensuring they have transportation to and from appointments.
Understanding and supporting someone with panic disorder can make a significant difference in their treatment and recovery process. Being informed about their condition and respecting their experiences will help them feel less isolated and more empowered to manage their symptoms.
Resources and Support
At Halo Mental Health, we provide more than just treatment. We offer a range of resources and support options, including links to support groups and additional online resources to help you manage your anxiety disorder. Our commitment is to your long-term well-being, ensuring you have access to the tools needed for sustained recovery.
Our comprehensive approach at Halo Mental Health is designed to treat people with panic disorder symptoms and other mental health conditions, helping you lead a fuller, more satisfying life. Whether you are experiencing your first panic attack or seeking ongoing support, we are here to help.