A panic attack is a sudden episode of fear and anxiety accompanied by severe bodily reactions. It is quite scary for the one who experiences it, as he may feel like he is having a heart attack, like he is going crazy or that he is distanced (cut off) from himself (eg that he is out of his body and observes himself as if he is someone else).
A panic attack occurs when the body experiences an unexpected, sudden alertness and intense psychological and physical symptoms. During a panic attack we experience intense fear, anxiety and stress.
Symptoms.
During a panic attack, physical symptoms such as palpitations, numbness of the limbs, sweating, feelings of terror, suffocation, dizziness or drowning, muscle spasms, nausea, abdominal discomfort, instability, fainting, fear of losing control, chills, and flushes occur.
The symptoms peak within 10 minutes, and then gradually subside. The most important effect is the development of phobia, i.e., a constant fear that it will happen again at any time. This gradually affects daily life, functionality, activities and at the same time degrades the quality of life. Many times, people with panic disorder end up locked up at home (agoraphobia, i.e., fear of something happening outside) for fear of the next panic attack.
Because of this, individuals are almost typically driven to behaviors of avoidance or excess control. For example, someone who has experienced a panic attack will avoid places or situations associated with it (e.g. driving, public transport, open spaces, etc.)
What are the causes?
Panic attacks can be related to: Anxiety, work-related stress, social anxiety, alcohol, drugs, caffeine, chronic conditions or chronic pain, personal, family or professional problems, relationship-phobias, a traumatic event, medication or dietary supplements, thyroid, diabetes, heart disease, divorce, separation, dismissal.
About 2-3% of adults have a panic attack each year. It usually starts in young adults (20-24 years old) but can occur earlier or later in life.
Treatment.
• Psychotherapy
Psychotherapy and especially Cognitive Behavioral Therapy is the most effective therapeutic approach for the disorder and panic attacks. It helps understand them and discover ways to deal with them.
It takes time and effort to achieve the results of the treatment. The symptoms of a panic attack will begin to subside within a few weeks, and often subside significantly or completely within a few months.
• Medication
Medication helps reduce symptoms. There are many medications that are effective and you need to consult a specialist.
• Relaxation techniques.
With these techniques it is possible to reduce feelings of panic and anxiety. In particular, “tactical breathing” helps to concentrate and control emotions and thoughts.
Other ways include: Having a healthy diet, getting 8 hours of sleep at night, exercising daily, living a positive life and building a support network.
The panic attack is not life threatening, it will end soon. So, it is good to remind ourselves of this and try to manage or reduce stress to have a better life.
