What is panic disorder?
Panic disorder is characterised by recurrent and disabling panic attacks. During a panic attack you will feel a sudden sense of overwhelming panic and fear, this can make you feel like you are dying or choking. Increased heart rate, difficulty breathing, chest pain, excessive sweating, trembling or shaking, dizziness, light-headedness or feeling faint and nausea may leave you feeling exhausted or very tired as an attack can last up to half an hour, with the worst of the symptoms in the first 10 minutes. You may have multiple panic attacks a day and make significant changes in your routine to avoid having another.
Symptoms of panic disorder often start in the late teens or early adulthood and affect more women than men.
If left untreated you may develop specific phobias, require frequent medical care, avoid social situations, have problems at work or school, develop depression or other psychiatric disorders, have an increased risk of suicide or suicidal thoughts, alcohol or other substance abuse, or financial problems.
Around 5% of Australians experience panic disorder in their lifetime.
What are the probable causes?
The major factors for panic disorder include genetics, major stress, sensitivity to stress, being prone to negative emotions, or certain changes in the way parts of your brain function.
You may be at an increased risk of developing panic disorder if you have a family history of panic disorder, major life stress, a traumatic event, major changes in your life, smoking or excessive caffeine intake, or a history of childhood abuse.
What treatments are available?
Treatment may include a mix of medications, such as anti-anxiety and antidepressants, and counselling or therapy such as cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT).
Our support team can help you in your everyday life to experience a greater quality of life by ensuring you’re eating healthy, nutritious meals, attending appointments, keeping yourself and home clean and hygienic, as well as accessing the community and rebuilding interpersonal skills.
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