Panic attacks can be described as sudden attacks of intense fear that last for several minutes, during which one can feel various symptoms. Panic attacks can be very painful and significantly affect personal well-being, both short-term and long-term. According to the DMS 5 (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual), repeated panic attacks are considered a symptom of panic disorder.
However, panic attacks and panic disorder can be treated. Counseling for panic attacks and panic disorder therapy is proven to be effective in most cases.
According to the DSM 5, symptoms of panic attacks are:
- Sudden feeling of intense anxiety
- Breathing difficulties (shortness of breath or hyperventilation)
- Heart palpitations or a racing heart
- Chest pains
- Sweating
- Trembling or shaking
- Dizziness
- Nausea
- Feeling a loss of control
- Fear of going crazy or dying
Panic attacks do not last long, in general (about 10 minutes or less), although some of the symptoms may persist for a longer time. For many people, the first panic attack may occur during a stressful time in life.
Criteria for panic disorder (according to the DSM 5):
- Recurrent unexpected panic attacks
- Panic attacks must be associated with longer than 1 month of subsequent persistent worry about having another attack or consequences of the attack or significant maladaptive behavioral changes related to the attack
Some of the challenges persons with panic disorder may face are:
- Constant worry about the possibility of having another panic attack at any time
- Avoidance of numerous situations in which panic attack could occur (for example: elevators; crowded places, such as theaters, stores and restaurants; traveling far from home… etc)
- Decrease of quality of life and personal well-being
If you have some of the symptoms listed above, you should consider searching for professional help (panic disorder therapy or counseling for panic attacks).
A Knoxville Therapist or counselor can help you define and understand panic attacks/panic disorder and their development as well as demystify common irrational beliefs regarding their symptoms (for example “Palpitations cause heart attacks”). Panic disorder therapy and counseling for panic attacks can help you restructure your maladaptive thoughts, which lead to panic attacks and learn techniques to control and prevent panic attacks (e.g. respiratory control, breathing retraining exercises and progressive muscle relaxation).
We encourage you to contact us to get more information or to schedule a session with our qualified therapists/counselors.
