Panic disorder and panic attacks are very curable diseases. Individuals with panic disorder can be efficiently treated with medication, psychotherapy, or a blend of the following.
This article will go over effective interventions for panic disorder and behavior modifications you can make to handle your signs.
Herein, 7 effective ways to treat panic disorder are discussed. Firstly, let us review what a panic disorder is.
What is a panic disorder?
Panic disorder is characterized by frequent episodes of panic or fear. At times, everyone undergoes feelings of anxiety and panic. It’s a normal reaction to hectic or potentially harmful circumstances.
How to treat Panic Disorder?
Consult a doctor if you are undergoing symptoms of panic disorder. Following a history discussion, a healthcare professional may perform a physical exam to ensure that an unassociated physical problem does not cause your symptoms. A mental healthcare professional, such as a psychiatrist or psychologist, may be referred to you by your medical professional. The first step toward – a successful Panic disorder treatment, is obtaining a diagnosis, which is usually provided by a mental health professional.
Psychotherapy, medication, or both are commonly used to treat panic disorder. Consult a physician about the right treatment for you.
Medications
Numerous medications can be used to treat panic disorder safely and effectively. Antidepressants and anti-anxiety medications are two types of medications used to treat panic disorder. These medications can be recommended to decrease the intensity of panic attacks and anxiety symptoms.
Psychotherapy
Psychotherapy has also been shown to be effective in treating panic disorder and agoraphobia. A mental health professional can help you work through underlying problems and sentiments through psychotherapy. A therapist can also assist you in developing healthier ideas and approaches that will help you manage your diagnosis.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
Panic disorder is usually treated with cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), a research-based type of psychotherapy. CBT teaches you how to think, act, and behave differently to the emotions before or during a panic attack. Once you learn to respond differently to the bodily sensations of anxiety and dread during a panic attack, the attacks will become less common.
Exposure therapy is a typical CBT technique that relies on addressing panic disorder-related anxieties and beliefs to enable you to engage in previously avoided activities. Relaxation exercises are occasionally combined with exposure therapy.
Panic-Focused Psychodynamic Psychotherapy
Another therapeutic strategy for treating panic disorder is panic-focused psychodynamic psychotherapy (PFPP). 10 This type of psychotherapy seeks to unearth prior events and personality clashes that may have affected the progression of your panic and anxiety.
PFPP helps you identify and address subconscious problems, particularly those involving anger, less terrifyingly and more helpfully. You might be able to conquer your panic disorder concerns by better understanding particular tensions, thoughts, and habits.
Blend of Medication and Psychotherapy
Your doctor may recommend a mix of therapy and medication. SSRIs are usually used in conjunction with a type of therapy such as CBT. This combo has been shown to help with panic attacks. 11 Benzodiazepines can be used to relieve anxiety symptoms in the short term.
Change your Lifestyle for the betterment
Changing your everyday behaviors may also aid in the reduction of panic disorder symptoms. Limiting caffeine, exercising frequently, getting adequate sleep, and giving up smoking are examples of these improvements.
It may also be beneficial to take action to overcome your everyday anxiety levels. Practicing mindfulness, meditation, or another relaxing exercise can help you manage your anxiety levels and symptoms.
Self-care
While professional treatment is recommended for panic attacks and panic disorder, the following self-care measures can help you manage symptoms:
- Adhere to your medication regimen. It can be difficult to confront your fears, but treatments are available to help you feel less like a prisoner in your residence.
- Participate in a self-help group. Joining a support group for people suffering from panic attacks or anxiety disorders can help you connect with others dealing with similar issues.
- Use stress-reduction and relaxation practices. Yoga, deep breathing, and relaxation exercises — flexing one muscle at a time and then releasing the tension fully until every muscle in the body is relaxed — are all examples of techniques that may be beneficial.
- Increase your physical activity. Aerobic exercise can help you feel more relaxed.
- Get plenty of rest. Get enough sleep to avoid feeling sleepy during the day.
Alternative medicine
Although several dietary supplements have been investigated as a treatment for panic disorder, further research is needed to comprehend the dangers and benefits fully. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) does not regulate herbal items and dietary supplements as it does drugs. You can’t always be sure what you’ll get or whether it’ll be safe.
Consult your doctor before using herbal medicines or nutritional supplements. A few of these products can create hazardous interactions with prescription drugs.
Get ready for your appointment
Schedule an appointment with doctor if you’ve experienced noticeable panic attack symptoms. He may send you to a mental health specialist for treatment after an initial evaluation.
Make a list of the following items before your appointment
- Your symptoms, such as when they began and how often you’ve experienced them.
- Medical information, such as other physical or mental health concerns you have
- Medications, vitamins, herbal items, and other supplements, as well as their dosages
- What questions should you ask your doctor?
If feasible, bring a trustworthy family member or friend to your visit to give support and assist you in remembering facts.
How can I help myself and others who suffer from panic attacks?
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Educating yourself on your condition
Seeking information is a good method to aid yourself or a loved one suffering from panic attacks or panic disorder. Learn about the warning signals, treatment choices, and the most recent study findings.
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Interact
If you’re having panic disorder symptoms, speak openly with someone you trust about how you’re feeling. If you suspect a family member has panic disorder, make time to communicate with them and convey your worry while assuring them of your support.
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When to Seek Assistance
It’s time to seek professional treatment if your anxiety, or the anxiety of a beloved, starts to create issues in regular life—at school, at work, or with friends and family. Discuss your mental health with a medical professional.
Conclusion
Hence, we went through 7 effective ways to treat panic disorder and how one can help oneself when suffering from panic disorder. I hope this article will be able to provide you with beneficial and effective knowledge on the treatments of panic disorder.
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