Panic disorder is an anxiety disorder characterized by sudden, severe, and frequent panic episodes. Fear and anxiety are typical responses to frightening or stressful situations, but a person with panic disorder experiences intense terror, rapid breathing, chest pain, and an accelerated heart rate—either out of proportion to the situation or repeatedly happening without identifiable stressors.

Although the exact origins of panic disorder are unknown, scientists think several psychological, behavioral, and environmental variables may be involved.

2.7% of American adults suffer from a panic disorder each year. Fortunately, persons with panic disorder may control their condition with a mix of counseling and medicine.

KEY TERMS

Panic Attack

Even when there is no immediate risk, a panic attack generally entails abrupt, overwhelming sensations of dread, worry, or apprehension. The symptoms of a panic attack usually reach their maximum within 10 minutes, although they may occasionally linger longer.

Anxiety Disorder

People who suffer from an anxiety disorder have intense concerns and anxieties that do not go away on their own. An anxiety disorder is a severe mental health problem. Because they tend to worsen over time and might affect a person’s everyday life, anxiety disorders must be treated.

Psychological Assessment

A psychological evaluation consists of several tests and assessments to gauge and track a person’s thoughts and actions. The psychologist or therapist will often provide a diagnosis and suggested course of action after the examination. In addition, general practitioners and psychiatrists may identify panic disorder via more thorough assessments of mental health.

Cognitive Behavior Therapy

CBT is a sort of treatment intended to assist a person in recognizing unhealthy behaviors and cognitive patterns. When adopting CBT, the therapist questions the patient’s beliefs and actions and offers more sensible alternatives as substitutes.