Panic Disorder Treatment

I. Panic Disorder: What is it?

Panic disorder can be very disabling condition for people who suffer in this condition. This condition may prevent one form activities in the environment which has been connected to having panic at the past. In addition, this can lead to social phobia or in severe case, agoraphobia.

The recurring panic attacks are said to have been the cause of panic disorder. It usually occurs abruptly or without warning. Panic attacks are characterized by having rapid heart palpitations, shortness of breath, trembling and intense anxiety. In some other cases, other symptoms would include nausea, cramps, and tightness of the throat, chest pains, chills and hot flashes.

II. Panic Disorder Treatment

Psychotherapy is one of the possible treatments of panic disorder. This therapy involves relaxation and imagery techniques that one may use during panic attacks to help decrease physiological distress and intense levels of fear. At some cases, sessions on talking about one’s fears may be helpful and can be a factor in supportive therapeutic relationship.

Having group therapy can also be beneficial. The support from colleagues and other friends can help one understand and cope with the condition. All the relaxation skills and assignments that a patient has in therapies need to be applied on a daily basis for it may not be the only solution. If the patient may not be willing in doing such tasks, the therapy may be unsuccessful. The goal and the proactive approach to change must be addressed to the patient before the onset of therapy.

Another approach to treatments for panic disorder isproper medication. Although there are many cases of individuals who surpass the condition without medication, resorting to medication can also be helpful. The most common prescribed medicines are those of benzodiazepines and the SSRI antidepressants. However, studies show that one should first result to anti anxiety drugs before taking the antidepressant ones to avoid severe side effects.

Finally, although this method is sometimes taken for granted, self help is also one way to cope with panic disorders. This method includes sharing of experiences among people who have the same disorder. People may also be encouraged to have new coping techniques for the situation. This way, patients may learn new skill set and develop social relationship for them.

III. What Now?

Panic disorder can be very disturbing condition. It is important for a patient to have a good support from family and friends in order for them to cope immediately.