What is panic disorder?
If panic attacks happen often, they are called a panic disorder. You may have panic disorder if you have at least two unexpected panic attacks, worry about having another attack, and avoid situations that may trigger it. Counseling and medicines can help treat this disorder.
What are the symptoms of panic disorder?
Symptoms of panic disorder may include:
- Repeated, unexpected panic attacks.
- Worry that you'll have another attack. Because of this fear, you may change your daily activities to avoid situations that may trigger it.
Some people have a fear of being in crowds, standing in line, or going into shopping malls. They are afraid of having another panic attack or of not being able to escape. This problem is called agoraphobia. It can be so bad for some people that they never leave their homes.
People who have panic disorder often have depression at the same time.
How are panic attacks and panic disorder diagnosed?
Your doctor will ask about your past health and symptoms. He or she will do a physical exam. The doctor will listen to your heart and check your blood pressure. You may get blood tests to check for other causes of your symptoms. The doctor may need to rule out other health conditions that have symptoms that are similar to panic disorder, such as a heart attack or hyperthyroidism.
You may be diagnosed with panic disorder if you have at least two unexpected panic attacks and worry about having another attack. This includes avoiding situations that may trigger an attack.
How are panic attacks and panic disorder treated?
Treatment may include:
- Counseling. An example is cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). Exposure therapy is a type of CBT. It helps you confront upsetting situations or thoughts until you feel less fearful of them.
- Medicines. Antidepressants may be used to help with panic attacks and panic disorder. Your doctor may try other types of medicines if antidepressants don't help.
- Home treatment. This includes relaxation exercises.
Treatment can help most people control or even stop attacks. It can help lower the anxiety you feel because of the fear of future attacks. But symptoms can come back, especially if you stop treatment too soon.
Unfortunately, many people don't seek treatment. You may not seek treatment because you think the symptoms aren't bad enough. Or maybe you think that you can work things out on your own. But getting treatment is important. It can prevent other problems related to panic disorder. These problems include depression, anxiety disorders, and substance use disorder.
If your panic attacks get too severe or happen too often, you may need to be treated in the hospital until they are under control.
How can you care for yourself when you have panic attacks?
Be sure to take medicines as prescribed. Go to your counseling sessions. Be kind to your body. Try to be active, eat a healthy diet, and get enough rest. Learn relaxation techniques to ease your anxiety. Avoid alcohol, marijuana, and illegal drugs. Don't isolate yourself. Get involved in social groups, or volunteer to help others.
Panic attacks: When to call
Call 911 anytime you think you may need emergency care. For example, call if:
- You feel you cannot stop from hurting yourself or someone else.
Where to get help 24 hours a day, 7 days a week
If you or someone you know talks about suicide, self-harm, a mental health crisis, a substance use crisis, or any other kind of emotional distress, get help right away. You can:
- Call the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline at 988.
- Call 1-800-273-TALK (1-800-273-8255).
- Text HOME to 741741 to access the Crisis Text Line.
Consider saving these numbers in your phone.
Go to 988lifeline.org for more information or to chat online.
Watch closely for changes in your health, and be sure to contact your doctor if:
- Your panic attacks get worse.
- You have new or different anxiety.
- You are not getting better as expected.
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