Panic Disorder

Panic Disorder is characterized by recurrent, unexpected panic attacks, followed by at least a month of persistent concern about having another attack, significant behavior changes related to the attacks, or both. It differs from simply having panic attacks — which can occur within any anxiety disorder — in the unpredictability of the attacks and the development of specific anticipatory anxiety about them.

Many people with panic disorder develop agoraphobia — avoidance of situations where escape would be difficult or help unavailable if an attack occurred. Left untreated, panic disorder can lead to a progressively more restricted life.

First-line treatment is CBT with interoceptive exposure techniques (learning to tolerate the physical sensations associated with panic without spiraling into a panic cycle), combined with medication when indicated.