Panic disorder is a severe anxiety disorder characterized by recurrent, unexpected panic attacks. These attacks cause a sudden surge of intense fear or discomfort, often accompanied by physical symptoms. Understanding the symptoms and getting proper treatment is crucial for managing this condition effectively. Resilience Behavioral Health in Atlanta offers a comprehensive approach to treating panic disorder, particularly within the context of co-occurring personality disorders. This blog will explore understanding panic disorders symptoms and highlight how our specialized program can help.
What Is Panic Disorder?
Panic disorder is more than just feeling stressed or anxious. It involves sudden and repeated attacks of overwhelming anxiety, fear, or terror without any tangible danger. These panic attacks can occur at any time and frequently leave the individual fearing the next one, thereby adding to the overall anxiety level.
Common Symptoms of Panic Disorders
Panic attack symptoms can vary from person to person, but they often include a combination of physical and emotional experiences. Here are some of the most common symptoms:
1. Rapid Heart Rate
During a panic attack, individuals often feel their heart pounding or racing. This rapid heart rate is not only alarming but can also be mistaken for a heart attack.
2. Sweating
Excessive sweating is another common symptom. This can occur even in cool environments and is often accompanied by chills or hot flashes.
3. Trembling or Shaking
Uncontrollable shaking or trembling is a frequent physical manifestation of panic attacks, adding to the overall discomfort and fear during an episode.
4. Shortness of Breath or Hyperventilation
Difficulty breathing, feeling like you’re choking, or hyperventilating can occur during a panic attack, making the experience extremely distressing.
5. Chest Pain
Chest pain or discomfort is often experienced during a panic attack. While it’s not a heart attack, the sensation can be very intense and frightening.
6. Nausea or Abdominal Cramping
Many individuals experience stomach upset, nausea, or abdominal cramping during or after a panic attack, further complicating the episode.
7. Dizziness or Lightheadedness
Feelings of dizziness, unsteadiness, or even fainting can occur during a panic attack, leaving individuals feeling out of control.
8. Fear of Losing Control or Dying
The emotional symptoms can be just as debilitating. Many people feel a sense of impending doom, fear they are dying, or fear they are losing control. These thoughts can be terrifying and difficult to shake.
9. Depersonalization or Derealization
Many individuals report feeling disconnected from themselves (depersonalization) or feeling like their surroundings are not real (derealization). This can add to the overall disorientation and fear.
The Impact of Panic Disorder on Daily Life
Living with panic disorder can significantly impact an individual’s quality of life. The fear of having another panic attack can lead to avoidance behaviors where individuals steer clear of places or situations where attacks have occurred in the past. This can be highly limiting and may contribute to additional mental health challenges such as depression or other anxiety disorders.
Resilience Behavioral Health’s Approach to Treatment Of Panic Disorders in Atlanta
At Resilience Behavioral Health in Atlanta, we understand the complexities of panic disorder and how it can be intertwined with personality disorders. Our specialized treatment program adopts a multifaceted approach grounded in evidence-based therapies and trauma-informed care principles.
Comprehensive Assessment
The first step in our program is a thorough assessment to understand the full scope of the individual’s needs. We evaluate the severity of panic disorder symptoms, the presence of any co-occurring personality disorders, and any history of trauma. This holistic assessment allows us to develop a customized treatment plan.
Individualized Therapy
We offer a range of therapeutic modalities tailored to individual needs. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is particularly effective for treating panic disorder by helping individuals identify and change the thought patterns that trigger panic attacks. Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) is also utilized to help clients learn coping skills, emotional regulation, and mindfulness techniques.
Trauma-Informed Care
Understanding that many individuals with panic disorder have experienced trauma, we integrate trauma-informed care principles into our treatment approach. We provide a safe, trustworthy, and empathetic environment where clients feel understood and supported.
Group Therapy
Group therapy sessions offer a supportive community where individuals can share their experiences, learn from others, and develop coping strategies in a safe space. Peer support is a valuable component of our approach, helping clients feel less isolated.
Medication Management
In some cases, medication may be necessary to manage severe symptoms of panic disorder. Our team works closely with clients to find the most effective medication plan, balancing it with therapeutic interventions.
Skills Training
We emphasize the development of practical life skills, such as stress management, assertiveness training, and self-care routines that are essential for long-term recovery and improved quality of life.
Family Involvement
Family therapy is integrated into our program to educate and support loved ones, fostering a supportive home environment and enhancing the overall treatment outcome.
Ongoing Support
Recovery is a continuous process, and our commitment extends beyond the initial treatment phase. We offer aftercare services, including follow-up sessions and access to support groups, ensuring sustained healing and growth.
Contact Resilience Behavioral Health Today For Atlanta Anxiety Treatment
If you or a loved one is struggling with panic disorder, particularly alongside a personality disorder, Resilience Behavioral Health in Atlanta is here to help. Our comprehensive, trauma-informed treatment program is designed to provide compassionate care and effective solutions. Contact Resilience Behavioral Health today. Let us help you on your journey to recovery and resilience.
