Panic Disorder

What is Panic Disorder?

People with panic disorder experience sudden rushes of fear or anxiety that seem to come from out of the blue. These panic attacks include a number of intense physical sensations such as a racing or pounding heart, shortness of breath, and dizziness. Additionally, there is often fear of dying or losing control during the attack, and fear of future attacks. People with panic disorder may also develop agoraphobia, a condition where they avoid going out in public for fear they will be in a difficult or embarrassing position if a panic attack occurs.

Panic attack

A panic attack is a discrete period of intense fear or discomfort, in which four (or more) of the following symptoms developed abruptly and reached a peak within 10 minutes:

palpitations, pounding heart, or accelerated heart rate

sweating

trembling or shaking

sensations of shortness of breath or smothering

feeling of choking

chest pain or discomfort

nausea or abdominal distress

feeling dizzy, unsteady, lightheaded, or faint

derealization (feelings of unreality) or depersonalization (being detached from oneself)

fear of losing control or going crazy

fear of dying

paresthesias (numbness or tingling sensations)

chills or hot flashes

Clinical Services

Diagnostic assessment and treatment options for Panic Disorder.

Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT).

This treatment is on a fee-for-service basis. We also offer a free initial assessment.

Panic Disorder Resouces

National

Client work book

Mastery of Your Anxiety and Panic