This article is the second in a two-part series on Panic Disorder. In the first article we discussed the very real possibility of being able to manage panic attacks through the use of relaxation techniques and other healthy coping tools. We also discussed looking for triggers of your anxiety in order to help you identify any patterns that your panic attacks may have. In addition to this, another important way to manage Panic Disorder in a healthy way is to get treatment. This article will discuss the components of Panic Disorder treatment.
Mental health treatment is a necessity for most people experiencing Panic Disorder. This is particularly true for those who experience other illnesses such as addiction, post traumatic stress disorder, or depression, along with Panic Disorder. You might remember some of the challenging symptoms that can come with Panic Disorder from the first article. However, here is a short list of symptoms:
- Shortness of breath
- Rapid heart rate
- Extreme and sudden overwhelm of worry and fear
- Trembling
- Sweating
- Stomach pains
- Headaches
- Faintness
- Fear of losing one’s mind
- Fear of losing control of oneself
- Fear of death
Because these symptoms can affect a person’s ability to work, have meaningful relationships, and enjoy pleasurable experiences, treatment may be required to return to living a fulfilling life. Treatment may vary depending upon one’s needs and circumstances. However, typically, treatment will consist of medication and therapy.
Medication: Although some people may be at first opposed to medication, taking them can ease a person’s experience of anxiety. It can help reduce the intensity of the anxiety and perhaps even remove the experience of panic attacks altogether. Types of medication for treating Panic Disorder can include anti-anxiety medication and even anti-depressants. Once a person doesn’t have to bear the burden of intense anxiety, they are more likely to benefit from therapy.
Therapy: There are a few different therapies that can work with Panic Disorder. The first is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). This is a form of treatment that asks a person to closely examine their thoughts and related behaviors, as well as reactions to certain situations. In this way, they untangle the mess of thoughts and feelings that might trigger anxiety. Changing thought patterns can help prevent an attack from happening in the future. Another way to apply CBT is to look for the purpose behind the anxiety. Effective techniques with Panic Disorder reveal that when a person uncovers the purpose of their attacks, the attacks often come to an end.
If you or someone you know is suffering from panic attacks, it’s important to get treatment. This is especially true if you’ve turned to drugs and alcohol as a means of coping with anxiety and fear. Taking substances is not the answer. In fact, it can even make some mental health symptoms worse. Instead, contact a mental health professional for assistance today.
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