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Treatment of Panic Disorder
By peace | May 11, 2006
Most patients with panic disorder respond best to a combination of cognitive-behavioral therapy and medication. Cognitive-behavioral therapy usually runs from 12-15 sessions. It teaches patients:
- how to identify and alter thought patterns so as not to misconstrue bodily sensations, events, or situations as catastrophic
- how to prepare for the situations and physical symptoms that trigger a panic attack
- how to identify and change unrealistic self-talk (such as “I’m going to die!”) that can worsen a panic attack.
- how to calm down and learn breathing exercises to counteract the physical symptoms of panic
- how to gradually confront the frightening situation step by step until it becomes less terrifying
- how to “desensitize” themselves to their own physical sensations, such as rapid heart rate
At the same time, many people find that medications can help reduce or prevent panic attacks by changing the way certain chemicals interact in the brain. People with panic disorder usually notice whether or not the drug is effective within two months, but most people take medication for at least six months to a year.
Several kinds of drugs can reduce or prevent panic attacks, including:
- selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) antipressants like paroxetine (Paxil) or fluoxetine (Prozac), are approved specifically for the treatment of panic
- tricyclic antidepressants such as clomipramine (Anafranil)
- benzodiazepines such as alprazolam (Xanax) and clonazepam (Klonopin)
Finally, patients can make certain lifestyle changes to help keep panic at bay, such as eliminating caffeine and alcohol, cocaine, amphetamines, and marijuana.
Can People with Panic Disorder lead normal lives?
The answer to this is a resounding YES — if they receive treatment.
Panic disorder is highly treatable, with a variety of available therapies. These treatments are extremely effective, and most people who have successfully completed treatment can continue to experience situational avoidance or anxiety, and further treatment might be necessary in those cases. Once treated, panic disorder doesn’t lead to any permanent complications.
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