What Is Panic Disorder? It’s a question many ask when experiencing overwhelming anxiety. WHAT.EDU.VN offers comprehensive insights into panic disorder, addressing its symptoms, causes, and effective treatments. Learn how to manage panic attacks and find support for mental well-being, ensuring a path towards a calmer, more controlled life. Explore anxiety management and mental health resources for lasting relief.
Table of Contents
- Understanding Panic Disorder
- Symptoms of Panic Disorder
- Causes and Risk Factors
- Diagnosis of Panic Disorder
- Treatment Options
- Self-Help Strategies
- Living with Panic Disorder
- Panic Disorder in Specific Populations
- Complications of Panic Disorder
- Research and Future Directions
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Get Free Answers on WHAT.EDU.VN
1. Understanding Panic Disorder
Panic disorder is a type of anxiety disorder characterized by recurrent, unexpected panic attacks. These attacks are sudden periods of intense fear that can include physical symptoms like a racing heart, shortness of breath, dizziness, or trembling. Unlike general anxiety, panic disorder involves these intense, abrupt episodes of fear, often accompanied by a persistent worry about having more attacks. Understanding the nature of these attacks and the disorder itself is crucial for effective management and treatment.
What is a Panic Attack?
A panic attack is a sudden surge of overwhelming fear or discomfort that comes on quickly and reaches its peak within minutes. These attacks can occur unexpectedly, even when there is no apparent danger. Common symptoms include a racing heart, sweating, trembling, shortness of breath, chest pain, nausea, and a feeling of losing control or impending doom. Some individuals may also experience derealization (a feeling of unreality) or depersonalization (feeling detached from oneself). Panic attacks can be incredibly frightening, often leading individuals to believe they are having a heart attack or are about to die.
The intensity and abruptness of a panic attack distinguish it from general anxiety. While anxiety is a more persistent feeling of worry or unease, a panic attack is an acute, intense episode. Experiencing a panic attack does not necessarily mean someone has panic disorder. Panic disorder is diagnosed when a person has recurrent panic attacks followed by persistent worry about having more attacks or significant behavioral changes related to the attacks, such as avoiding places where attacks have occurred in the past.
Panic Disorder vs. Anxiety
It’s essential to differentiate between panic disorder and general anxiety to understand the specific challenges and treatments associated with each condition. Anxiety is a broad term encompassing various feelings of worry, nervousness, or unease, typically related to specific situations or events. Anxiety disorders, such as generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), social anxiety disorder, and specific phobias, involve excessive and persistent anxiety that interferes with daily life.
Panic disorder, on the other hand, is characterized by the occurrence of panic attacks, which are sudden, intense episodes of fear accompanied by physical and psychological symptoms. While individuals with anxiety disorders may experience panic attacks, panic disorder is distinguished by the recurrent nature of these attacks and the persistent worry about future attacks. This anticipatory anxiety can lead to significant behavioral changes, such as avoiding situations or places where attacks have occurred in the past, a condition known as agoraphobia.
In summary, while both panic disorder and anxiety disorders involve heightened states of fear and worry, panic disorder is specifically defined by the experience of recurrent, unexpected panic attacks and the associated fear of future attacks. Proper diagnosis is crucial to ensure individuals receive the appropriate treatment and support for their specific condition.
2. Symptoms of Panic Disorder
Recognizing the symptoms of panic disorder is the first step toward seeking help and managing the condition effectively. Panic disorder presents with a range of physical and psychological symptoms that can be overwhelming and debilitating. Understanding these symptoms can help individuals differentiate panic attacks from other health issues and seek appropriate medical or mental health care.
Physical Symptoms
The physical symptoms of a panic attack can mimic those of a heart attack or other serious medical conditions, leading to intense fear and distress. Common physical symptoms include:
- Pounding or Racing Heart (Palpitations): A rapid or irregular heartbeat is one of the most common symptoms, often accompanied by a feeling of your heart pounding in your chest.
- Sweating: Excessive sweating, even in cool environments, is a frequent symptom, often accompanied by clammy hands and feet.
- Trembling or Shaking: Uncontrollable trembling or shaking, particularly in the hands and legs, is another common physical manifestation of panic.
- Shortness of Breath or Feeling Smothered: Difficulty breathing, a sensation of being unable to get enough air, or a feeling of choking can be extremely frightening.
- Chest Pain or Discomfort: Chest pain or tightness can occur during a panic attack, often leading individuals to believe they are having a heart attack.
- Nausea or Abdominal Distress: Nausea, stomach upset, or abdominal pain are also common physical symptoms, sometimes accompanied by diarrhea.
- Dizziness, Lightheadedness, or Faintness: Feeling dizzy, lightheaded, or faint can occur due to changes in blood pressure or hyperventilation during a panic attack.
- Chills or Heat Sensations: Sudden chills or intense heat sensations can occur, often alternating rapidly.
- Numbness or Tingling (Paresthesia): Numbness or tingling sensations, particularly in the hands and feet, are another common physical symptom.
These physical symptoms can be intense and frightening, often leading individuals to seek emergency medical care. However, it’s important to note that panic attacks are not life-threatening, and these symptoms are temporary.
Psychological Symptoms
In addition to the physical symptoms, panic attacks also involve a range of psychological symptoms that can be equally distressing. These symptoms include:
- Feeling of Unreality (Derealization): A sense that the world around you is not real, as if you are in a dream or watching a movie.
- Feeling Detached from Oneself (Depersonalization): A feeling of being detached from your own body, thoughts, or feelings, as if you are an outside observer.
- Fear of Losing Control: A fear of losing control, going crazy, or acting erratically.
- Fear of Dying: An overwhelming fear of dying, often accompanied by the belief that you are having a heart attack or other life-threatening event.
- Sense of Impending Doom: A feeling that something terrible is about to happen, even if there is no clear reason for this feeling.
These psychological symptoms can be particularly distressing, leading individuals to feel overwhelmed and helpless. The combination of physical and psychological symptoms can create a terrifying experience, often leading to a fear of future attacks.
Diagnostic Criteria
To be diagnosed with panic disorder, individuals must meet specific criteria outlined in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5). These criteria include:
- Recurrent Unexpected Panic Attacks: Experiencing recurrent panic attacks that occur unexpectedly, meaning they are not triggered by a specific situation or event.
- At Least One Attack Followed by One Month (or More) of One or Both of the Following:
- Persistent Concern or Worry About Additional Panic Attacks or Their Consequences: This involves a persistent worry about having more attacks, as well as concerns about the implications of the attacks, such as losing control, having a heart attack, or going crazy.
- A Significant Maladaptive Change in Behavior Related to the Attacks: This includes making significant changes in behavior to avoid situations or places where panic attacks have occurred in the past. This may involve avoiding exercise, social situations, or specific locations.
- The Panic Attacks Are Not Attributable to the Physiological Effects of a Substance (e.g., a Drug of Abuse, a Medication) or Another Medical Condition (e.g., Hyperthyroidism, Cardiopulmonary Disorders).
- The Disturbance Is Not Better Explained by Another Mental Disorder (e.g., the Panic Attacks Do Not Occur Only in Response to Feared Social Situations, as in Social Anxiety Disorder; Specific Phobias; Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder; Posttraumatic Stress Disorder; or Separation Anxiety Disorder).
Meeting these criteria is essential for an accurate diagnosis of panic disorder. A mental health professional can conduct a thorough evaluation to determine if an individual meets these criteria and to rule out other possible conditions.
3. Causes and Risk Factors
The exact causes of panic disorder are not fully understood, but research suggests that a combination of genetic, biological, and environmental factors plays a role. Understanding these factors can help identify individuals who may be at higher risk and inform strategies for prevention and treatment.
Genetic Predisposition
Panic disorder often runs in families, suggesting a genetic component. Individuals with a family history of anxiety disorders, including panic disorder, are more likely to develop the condition themselves. While specific genes have not been identified, research indicates that certain genetic variations may increase vulnerability to panic disorder. This genetic predisposition does not guarantee that someone will develop panic disorder, but it does increase their risk.
Brain Function
Research has shown that certain areas of the brain and specific biological processes may play a crucial role in fear and anxiety. The amygdala, a brain region responsible for processing emotions, particularly fear, is believed to be hyperactive in individuals with panic disorder. This hyperactivity can lead to an exaggerated fear response to perceived threats, triggering panic attacks.
Additionally, imbalances in neurotransmitters, such as serotonin, norepinephrine, and GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid), may contribute to panic disorder. These neurotransmitters play a role in regulating mood, anxiety, and the body’s response to stress. Disruptions in these neurotransmitter systems can increase susceptibility to panic attacks and anxiety.
Environmental Factors
Environmental factors, such as stressful life events and trauma, can also contribute to the development of panic disorder. Significant life stressors, such as the death of a loved one, divorce, job loss, or financial difficulties, can trigger panic attacks and increase the risk of developing panic disorder. Traumatic experiences, such as physical or sexual abuse, can also lead to long-term changes in brain function and increase vulnerability to anxiety disorders, including panic disorder.
Stressful Life Events
Stressful life events, particularly those that involve loss, change, or uncertainty, can trigger panic attacks and increase the risk of developing panic disorder. These events can overwhelm an individual’s coping mechanisms and lead to heightened anxiety and fear. The accumulation of multiple stressors over time can also increase vulnerability to panic disorder. Individuals who have difficulty managing stress or who lack adequate social support may be particularly susceptible.
It’s important to note that not everyone who experiences these risk factors will develop panic disorder. The interplay of genetic, biological, and environmental factors is complex, and individual resilience and coping strategies also play a role.
4. Diagnosis of Panic Disorder
Diagnosing panic disorder involves a comprehensive evaluation to rule out other medical conditions and to determine if an individual meets the diagnostic criteria for panic disorder. This evaluation typically includes a physical examination, a psychological assessment, and a review of the individual’s medical history.
Physical Examination
A physical examination is often the first step in diagnosing panic disorder. This examination is conducted to rule out any underlying medical conditions that may be causing the symptoms. Conditions such as hyperthyroidism, heart problems, and respiratory disorders can mimic the symptoms of panic attacks. The health care provider will assess vital signs, such as heart rate and blood pressure, and may order blood tests or other diagnostic tests to evaluate the individual’s physical health.
Psychological Evaluation
A psychological evaluation is a critical component of diagnosing panic disorder. This evaluation is typically conducted by a mental health professional, such as a psychiatrist, psychologist, or clinical social worker. The evaluation involves a thorough assessment of the individual’s symptoms, medical history, and family history of mental health disorders. The mental health professional will use standardized questionnaires and interviews to assess the frequency, intensity, and duration of panic attacks, as well as the individual’s thoughts, feelings, and behaviors related to the attacks.
The psychological evaluation will also assess for the presence of other mental health conditions, such as depression, anxiety disorders, or substance abuse, which can co-occur with panic disorder. The mental health professional will also explore the individual’s coping strategies and social support system.
Ruling Out Other Conditions
One of the key steps in diagnosing panic disorder is to rule out other medical and mental health conditions that may be causing similar symptoms. As mentioned earlier, several medical conditions can mimic the symptoms of panic attacks. In addition, other anxiety disorders, such as generalized anxiety disorder, social anxiety disorder, and specific phobias, can also present with panic-like symptoms.
The mental health professional will carefully evaluate the individual’s symptoms and history to differentiate panic disorder from these other conditions. For example, if the panic attacks occur only in response to specific social situations, a diagnosis of social anxiety disorder may be more appropriate. If the panic attacks are triggered by specific objects or situations, a diagnosis of specific phobia may be considered.
An accurate diagnosis is essential for ensuring that individuals receive the appropriate treatment and support for their specific condition.
5. Treatment Options
Panic disorder is a highly treatable condition, and a range of effective treatment options are available. Treatment typically involves psychotherapy, medication, or a combination of both. The choice of treatment depends on the individual’s specific symptoms, preferences, and medical history.
Psychotherapy
Psychotherapy, also known as talk therapy, is a common and effective treatment for panic disorder. It involves working with a therapist to explore the thoughts, feelings, and behaviors that contribute to panic attacks. Two common types of psychotherapy used to treat panic disorder are cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and exposure therapy.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is a structured, goal-oriented type of psychotherapy that focuses on identifying and changing negative thought patterns and behaviors that contribute to panic attacks. CBT helps individuals understand the connection between their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors and develop coping strategies to manage anxiety and panic.
During CBT, individuals learn to challenge and reframe negative thoughts that trigger panic attacks. For example, someone who fears having a heart attack during a panic attack may learn to recognize that the symptoms are not life-threatening and to focus on calming techniques. CBT also involves behavioral techniques, such as relaxation exercises and breathing exercises, to help individuals manage the physical symptoms of panic.
Exposure Therapy
Exposure therapy is a type of CBT that involves gradually exposing individuals to the feared situations or sensations that trigger panic attacks. The goal of exposure therapy is to help individuals confront their fears and learn that the feared situations are not dangerous.
Exposure therapy can be conducted in vivo (in real life) or in imagination. For example, someone who fears public speaking may start by practicing in front of a small group of friends and gradually work up to speaking in front of a larger audience. Exposure therapy can also involve interoceptive exposure, which involves intentionally inducing physical sensations that mimic the symptoms of a panic attack, such as rapid heart rate or shortness of breath. This helps individuals learn to tolerate these sensations without panicking.
Medication
Medication can be an effective treatment for panic disorder, particularly when combined with psychotherapy. Several types of medication are used to treat panic disorder, including antidepressants and anti-anxiety medications.
Antidepressants
Antidepressants, particularly selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs), are commonly prescribed to treat panic disorder. These medications work by increasing the levels of serotonin and norepinephrine in the brain, which can help regulate mood and anxiety.
SSRIs and SNRIs are generally well-tolerated, but they can cause side effects, such as nausea, headache, and sexual dysfunction. It may take several weeks for these medications to reach their full effect.
Anti-Anxiety Medications
Anti-anxiety medications, such as benzodiazepines, can be effective in quickly reducing the symptoms of panic attacks. Benzodiazepines work by enhancing the effects of GABA, a neurotransmitter that has a calming effect on the brain.
Benzodiazepines can be helpful in managing acute panic symptoms, but they are not typically recommended for long-term use due to the risk of dependence and withdrawal symptoms. They can also cause side effects, such as drowsiness and impaired coordination.
A health care provider can work with you to determine the best medication, dose, and duration of treatment for your specific needs.
6. Self-Help Strategies
In addition to professional treatment, several self-help strategies can help individuals manage panic disorder and reduce the frequency and intensity of panic attacks. These strategies include mindfulness and meditation, breathing exercises, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, and joining support groups.
Mindfulness and Meditation
Mindfulness and meditation are techniques that involve focusing on the present moment and accepting thoughts and feelings without judgment. These practices can help individuals become more aware of their thoughts and feelings, reduce anxiety, and promote relaxation.
Mindfulness can be practiced in various ways, such as through guided meditation, yoga, or simply paying attention to everyday activities, such as walking or eating. Regular practice of mindfulness and meditation can help individuals develop a greater sense of calm and control over their thoughts and emotions.
Breathing Exercises
Breathing exercises are simple yet powerful techniques that can help reduce the physical symptoms of panic attacks. Deep breathing exercises, such as diaphragmatic breathing, can help slow down the heart rate, lower blood pressure, and promote relaxation.
To practice diaphragmatic breathing, sit or lie down in a comfortable position and place one hand on your chest and the other on your abdomen. Breathe in slowly through your nose, allowing your abdomen to rise while keeping your chest still. Breathe out slowly through your mouth, allowing your abdomen to fall. Repeat this exercise for several minutes, focusing on your breath and allowing your body to relax.
Healthy Lifestyle
Maintaining a healthy lifestyle can also play a significant role in managing panic disorder. This includes getting enough sleep, eating a healthy diet, exercising regularly, and avoiding caffeine and alcohol.
- Sleep: Aim for 7-8 hours of sleep per night. Lack of sleep can increase anxiety and make it more difficult to manage panic attacks.
- Diet: Eat a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein. Avoid processed foods, sugary drinks, and excessive caffeine.
- Exercise: Engage in regular physical activity, such as walking, running, swimming, or yoga. Exercise can help reduce anxiety and improve mood.
- Avoid Caffeine and Alcohol: Caffeine and alcohol can trigger panic attacks in some individuals. It’s best to avoid these substances or consume them in moderation.
Support Groups
Joining a support group can provide individuals with panic disorder a sense of community and understanding. Support groups offer a safe and supportive environment where individuals can share their experiences, learn coping strategies, and receive encouragement from others who understand what they are going through.
Support groups can be found online or in person. Talking to others who have panic disorder can help reduce feelings of isolation and provide valuable insights and tips for managing the condition.
7. Living with Panic Disorder
Living with panic disorder can be challenging, but with the right strategies and support, individuals can manage their symptoms and live fulfilling lives. This involves developing coping mechanisms, building a support system, and managing triggers.
Coping Mechanisms
Coping mechanisms are strategies that individuals use to manage stress, anxiety, and panic attacks. Some effective coping mechanisms for panic disorder include:
- Relaxation Techniques: Practicing relaxation techniques, such as progressive muscle relaxation, guided imagery, or aromatherapy, can help reduce anxiety and promote relaxation.
- Grounding Techniques: Grounding techniques involve focusing on the present moment and connecting with the physical world. This can help individuals feel more grounded and in control during a panic attack. Examples of grounding techniques include focusing on the sensations of your feet on the ground, holding a cold object, or describing the objects around you.
- Positive Self-Talk: Challenging negative thoughts and replacing them with positive self-talk can help reduce anxiety and improve mood. For example, instead of thinking “I’m going to have a panic attack,” try thinking “I’ve handled panic attacks before, and I can handle this one too.”
- Distraction Techniques: Engaging in activities that distract you from your anxiety can help reduce the intensity of a panic attack. This could include listening to music, reading a book, or talking to a friend.
Building a Support System
Having a strong support system is essential for living with panic disorder. This includes family, friends, and mental health professionals who understand your condition and can provide support and encouragement.
Communicating openly with loved ones about your panic disorder can help them understand what you are going through and how they can support you. It’s also important to seek professional help from a therapist or psychiatrist who can provide evidence-based treatment and ongoing support.
Managing Triggers
Identifying and managing triggers can help reduce the frequency of panic attacks. Triggers can vary from person to person, but common triggers include stressful situations, certain places, or specific sensations.
Keeping a journal to track your panic attacks and identify potential triggers can be helpful. Once you have identified your triggers, you can develop strategies to manage them. This may involve avoiding certain situations, practicing relaxation techniques, or seeking support from a therapist.
8. Panic Disorder in Specific Populations
Panic disorder can affect individuals of all ages and backgrounds, but certain populations may face unique challenges. These include children and adolescents, pregnant women, and older adults.
Children and Adolescents
Panic disorder can occur in children and adolescents, but it may present differently than in adults. Children may have difficulty expressing their symptoms and may exhibit behavioral changes, such as increased irritability, clinginess, or avoidance of school.
Treatment for panic disorder in children and adolescents typically involves psychotherapy, such as CBT, and may include medication in some cases. It’s important to involve parents or caregivers in the treatment process to provide support and create a supportive environment.
Pregnant Women
Pregnant women are at an increased risk of experiencing anxiety disorders, including panic disorder. Hormonal changes, stress, and concerns about pregnancy and childbirth can contribute to anxiety.
Treatment for panic disorder during pregnancy requires careful consideration of the risks and benefits of medication. Psychotherapy is often the first-line treatment, and medication may be considered in severe cases. It’s important to discuss treatment options with a health care provider who specializes in mental health during pregnancy.
Older Adults
Panic disorder can also occur in older adults, but it may be underdiagnosed and undertreated. Older adults may attribute their symptoms to physical health problems or may be reluctant to seek mental health care.
Treatment for panic disorder in older adults typically involves psychotherapy and may include medication. It’s important to consider the potential side effects of medication in older adults and to adjust treatment accordingly.
9. Complications of Panic Disorder
If left untreated, panic disorder can lead to a range of complications that can significantly impact an individual’s quality of life. These complications include agoraphobia, depression and other mental health conditions, substance abuse, and social isolation.
Agoraphobia
Agoraphobia is an anxiety disorder characterized by a fear of being in situations where escape might be difficult or help might not be available in the event of a panic attack. This can lead individuals to avoid public places, such as shopping malls, movie theaters, or public transportation. In severe cases, individuals with agoraphobia may become housebound.
Agoraphobia is a common complication of panic disorder, and it can significantly limit an individual’s ability to participate in everyday activities. Treatment for agoraphobia typically involves exposure therapy and CBT.
Depression and Other Mental Health Conditions
Panic disorder often co-occurs with other mental health conditions, such as depression, anxiety disorders, and bipolar disorder. The chronic stress and anxiety associated with panic disorder can increase the risk of developing depression.
It’s important to assess for the presence of co-occurring mental health conditions and to provide integrated treatment that addresses both panic disorder and any other mental health issues.
Substance Abuse
Some individuals with panic disorder may turn to substance abuse as a way to cope with their anxiety and panic attacks. Alcohol and drugs can provide temporary relief from anxiety, but they can also worsen symptoms in the long run and lead to dependence and addiction.
Substance abuse can complicate the treatment of panic disorder and can have serious health consequences. It’s important to address substance abuse as part of a comprehensive treatment plan for panic disorder.
Social Isolation
Panic disorder can lead to social isolation as individuals avoid social situations and activities due to fear of having a panic attack. This can lead to feelings of loneliness, isolation, and decreased quality of life.
Building a support system and engaging in social activities can help reduce social isolation and improve well-being.
10. Research and Future Directions
Research on panic disorder is ongoing, with the goal of improving our understanding of the causes, mechanisms, and treatment of the condition. This research includes brain imaging studies, genetic research, and the development of novel treatments.
Brain Imaging Studies
Brain imaging studies, such as MRI and PET scans, are used to investigate the brain regions and neural circuits involved in panic disorder. These studies have shown that the amygdala, prefrontal cortex, and other brain regions play a role in the fear and anxiety associated with panic disorder.
Future research will likely focus on identifying specific biomarkers that can be used to diagnose panic disorder and predict treatment response.
Genetic Research
Genetic research is aimed at identifying genes that may increase susceptibility to panic disorder. This research involves studying families with a history of panic disorder and comparing the DNA of individuals with and without the condition.
Identifying specific genes involved in panic disorder could lead to the development of targeted treatments that address the underlying genetic causes of the condition.
Novel Treatments
Researchers are also exploring novel treatments for panic disorder, such as transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) and virtual reality therapy. TMS is a non-invasive brain stimulation technique that uses magnetic pulses to stimulate or inhibit activity in specific brain regions. Virtual reality therapy involves using virtual reality technology to expose individuals to feared situations in a safe and controlled environment.
These novel treatments show promise for improving the treatment of panic disorder and may provide alternatives for individuals who do not respond to traditional treatments.
11. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What is the difference between a panic attack and a panic disorder?
A: A panic attack is a sudden episode of intense fear accompanied by physical symptoms like a racing heart and shortness of breath. Panic disorder involves recurrent panic attacks followed by persistent worry about having more attacks or significant behavioral changes related to the attacks.
Q: What are the common symptoms of panic disorder?
A: Common symptoms include sudden and repeated panic attacks, a feeling of being out of control, intense worry about future attacks, avoidance of places where attacks have occurred, and physical symptoms like palpitations, sweating, and trembling.
Q: What causes panic disorder?
A: The exact causes are not fully understood, but genetic predisposition, brain function, stressful life events, and environmental factors can play a role.
Q: How is panic disorder diagnosed?
A: Diagnosis involves a physical examination to rule out other medical conditions, a psychological evaluation to assess symptoms, and a comparison to the diagnostic criteria in the DSM-5.
Q: What treatment options are available for panic disorder?
A: Treatment options include psychotherapy (such as cognitive behavioral therapy and exposure therapy) and medication (such as antidepressants and anti-anxiety medications).
Q: Can self-help strategies help manage panic disorder?
A: Yes, self-help strategies like mindfulness, breathing exercises, a healthy lifestyle, and joining support groups can be beneficial.
Q: What are the potential complications of untreated panic disorder?
A: Complications can include agoraphobia, depression, substance abuse, and social isolation.
Q: Is panic disorder more common in certain populations?
A: While it can affect anyone, panic disorder may present unique challenges in children, pregnant women, and older adults.
Q: What kind of research is being done on panic disorder?
A: Research includes brain imaging studies, genetic research, and the development of novel treatments like TMS and virtual reality therapy.
Q: Where can I find help if I think I have panic disorder?
A: Talk to a health care provider or mental health professional. You can also find resources through the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) and the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH).
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