Panic Attacks and
Panic Disorder:
Symptoms and Benefits of Treatment from a Mental Health Perspective
Panic attacks and panic disorder can significantly impact a person's mental health and quality of life. Here's an overview of the symptoms and benefits of treatment from a mental health perspective:
Symptoms of Panic Attacks and Panic Disorder:
1. Psychological symptoms:
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Intense fear or dread[3]
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Feeling of losing control[3]
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Fear of dying[3]
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Sense of detachment from reality[3]
2. Physical symptoms:
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Racing heart or palpitations[3]
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Sweating[3]
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Trembling or shaking[3]
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Shortness of breath[3]
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Chest pain or discomfort[3]
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Nausea or abdominal distress[3]
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Dizziness or lightheadedness[3]
Panic attacks typically last 5 to 20 minutes, though some may last up to an hour[3]. People with panic disorder experience recurrent, unexpected panic attacks and often develop a fear of having future attacks[3].
Benefits of Treatment:
1. Reduced frequency and intensity of panic attacks:
Treatment can help decrease the number of panic attacks and lessen the severity of symptoms[1][4].
2. Improved daily functioning:
Effective treatment can enhance a person's ability to engage in daily activities and social interactions[1].
3. Better quality of life:
By managing symptoms, treatment can lead to an overall improvement in quality of life and well-being[3].
4. Prevention of complications:
Timely treatment can help prevent the development of other mental health conditions, such as agoraphobia or other phobias[4].
5. Increased self-awareness and coping skills:
Psychotherapy, particularly cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), can help individuals understand their panic attacks and develop effective coping strategies[1][3].
6. Reduced anxiety and fear:
Treatment can help alleviate the constant worry and fear associated with panic disorder[4].
Citations:
[1] https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/panic-attacks/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20376027
[2] https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/publications/panic-disorder-when-fear-overwhelms
[3] https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/4451-panic-attack-panic-disorder
[4] https://www.nhsinform.scot/illnesses-and-conditions/mental-health/panic-disorder/
[5] https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/9536-anxiety-disorders
