Panic Disorder
Panic Disorder is a diagnosis used for individuals who experience recurrent panic attacks. While a single panic attack is obviously still quite unpleasant, it’s not sufficient to meet the diagnostic criteria for Panic Disorder. Panic attacks that are solely experienced in the context of a specific trigger (such as with a phobia, for example) would also not be considered Panic Disorder.
A panic attack is an acute episode of anxiety, characterized by the presence of physiological symptoms, including:
· Shortness of breath
· Sweating
· Accelerated heart rate
· Trembling or shaking
· Chest pain or discomfort
· Feeling dizzy, light-headed, or faint
· Chills or hot flushes
· Feelings of derealization or depersonalization
· Nausea or abdominal/GI distress
Individuals with Panic Disorder attempt to prevent panic, understandably. Unfortunately, this avoidance of potential triggers often serves to reinforce anxiety and panic. It makes the problem worse, as it both worsens anxiety and increases its impact on functioning. This is such a common occurrence that Panic Disorder has often been associated with Agoraphobia, a fear of open or public spaces. Many individuals with Panic Disorder can start to become fearful of going out at all, worrying that panic will strike if they step out of their comfort zone.
Panic Resources:
Anxiety & Depression Association of America (ADAA)
The Anxiety Coach: Agoraphobia Treatment: Break the Fear Habit