We are independent & ad-supported. We may earn a commission for purchases made through our links.
Advertiser Disclosure
Our website is an independent, advertising-supported platform. We provide our content free of charge to our readers, and to keep it that way, we rely on revenue generated through advertisements and affiliate partnerships. This means that when you click on certain links on our site and make a purchase, we may earn a commission. Learn more.
How We Make Money
We sustain our operations through affiliate commissions and advertising. If you click on an affiliate link and make a purchase, we may receive a commission from the merchant at no additional cost to you. We also display advertisements on our website, which help generate revenue to support our work and keep our content free for readers. Our editorial team operates independently of our advertising and affiliate partnerships to ensure that our content remains unbiased and focused on providing you with the best information and recommendations based on thorough research and honest evaluations. To remain transparent, we’ve provided a list of our current affiliate partners here.
Medicine

Our Promise to you

Founded in 2002, our company has been a trusted resource for readers seeking informative and engaging content. Our dedication to quality remains unwavering—and will never change. We follow a strict editorial policy, ensuring that our content is authored by highly qualified professionals and edited by subject matter experts. This guarantees that everything we publish is objective, accurate, and trustworthy.

Over the years, we've refined our approach to cover a wide range of topics, providing readers with reliable and practical advice to enhance their knowledge and skills. That's why millions of readers turn to us each year. Join us in celebrating the joy of learning, guided by standards you can trust.

What are the Treatments for Panic Disorder?

Lainie Petersen
By
Updated: May 17, 2024
Views: 2,924
Share

Treatments for panic disorder vary according to the philosophy of the mental health practitioner treating someone who suffers from panic disorder as well as the client's circumstances. In many cases, treatments may include psychotherapy, psychiatric drugs, or biofeedback. Those who suffer from panic attacks may need to try different approaches before finding a method or combination of treatments for panic disorder that helps them to manage and eventually reduce or eliminate their symptoms.

Some experts advise people who experience panic disorder symptoms, such as shortness of breath, chest pain, or a racing heart, to talk to their primary care physician prior to seeking mental health treatment. This is because some of these symptoms can be caused by other medical conditions that may be best treated by a medical doctor. If someone's doctor cannot find a physical reason for the symptoms, a psychiatrist or other mental health professional may be able to diagnose a panic disorder. Depending on the severity of the symptoms and other factors, the mental health professional may prescribe a course of treatment.

For many people, psychotherapy, particularly cognitive behavioral therapy, can be one of the most effective treatments for panic disorder. A good therapist can help a client recognize issues that trigger panic and anxiety and develop ways of self-calming so as to avoid panic attacks and symptoms of severe anxiety. In addition to self-soothing techniques, the therapist may be able to teach the client stress management skills or help the client address life circumstances that contribute to his distress. Some therapists may also recommend biofeedback, a treatment that involves allowing a client to view electronic measurements of his heart rate and breathing under certain circumstances so he can learn to control his physical responses to panic-inducing stimuli. By controlling his response, he may be able to prevent a cascade effect in which his physical response contributes to his panicked state.

In some cases, psychiatric medication may be prescribed to a client who does not respond well to psychotherapy or stress-management approaches. Drugs that might be used as treatments for panic disorder include antidepressants as well as anti-anxiety drugs. In many places, only a medical doctor can prescribe these drugs and supervise their use, though doctors often work together with psychologists and other mental health professionals to provide a comprehensive approach to treatment. As the symptoms of panic disorder begin to wane or become more manageable, medication may be scaled back or discontinued in favor of non-medical treatments.

Share
WiseGeek is dedicated to providing accurate and trustworthy information. We carefully select reputable sources and employ a rigorous fact-checking process to maintain the highest standards. To learn more about our commitment to accuracy, read our editorial process.
Lainie Petersen
By Lainie Petersen
Lainie Petersen, a talented writer, copywriter, and content creator, brings her diverse skill set to her role as an editor. With a unique educational background, she crafts engaging content and hosts podcasts and radio shows, showcasing her versatility as a media and communication professional. Her ability to understand and connect with audiences makes her a valuable asset to any media organization.

Editors' Picks

Discussion Comments
Lainie Petersen
Lainie Petersen
Lainie Petersen, a talented writer, copywriter, and content creator, brings her diverse skill set to her role as an...
Learn more
Share
https://www.wisegeek.net/what-are-the-treatments-for-panic-disorder.htm
Copy this link
WiseGeek, in your inbox

Our latest articles, guides, and more, delivered daily.

WiseGeek, in your inbox

Our latest articles, guides, and more, delivered daily.