Dealing with Panic Disorder

at least 1.6 percent of adult Americans, or 3 million people, will have panic disorder at some time in their lives. Panic disorder is a serious health problem and is very different from other types of anxiety. Panic attacks are sudden, it seems to be unchallenged, and often disabling. If you have panic disorder, May you feel suddenly terrified for no reason. During a panic attack, you have scary physical feelings like a fast heartbeat, trouble breathing, or dizziness.

Panic attacks can happen at any time and any place without warning. Many people with panic disorder develop intense anxiety between episodes. It is not uncommon for people with panic disorder to develop phobias about places or situations where panic attacks have occurred, such as in supermarkets or other everyday situations.

It usually starts when people are young, around 18-24 years of age. Sometimes it starts when a person is stressed, for example, after the death of a loved one or after the child. Anyone can have panic disorder, but more women than men have the disease. It sometimes runs in families.

Speaking to a specially trained doctor or counselor who can teach you ways to cope with panic attacks helps many people with panic disorder. Therapy will help you feel less fear and anxiety. Thanks to research, there are various treatments available, including several effective medications, as well as specific forms of psychotherapy. Often, a combination of psychotherapy and medication provides good results.

It is extremely important for people suffering from panic disorder to understand that there is help available. Tragically, many people with panic disorder do not seek or receive treatment.

National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) is a U.S. government agency responsible for improving the mental health of the American people by supporting the research of brain and mental disorders and increasing public understanding and treating these conditions. NIMH-sponsored a major information campaign to inform the public and health professionals with this disorder.