Psychologist's help with panic attacks

Panic attacks are sudden episodes of intense fear and anxiety, accompanied by a variety of physical symptoms. For those who have experienced them, panic attacks can feel overwhelming and terrifying, even in familiar and safe surroundings. If you have ever faced a panic attack, you understand how debilitating and frightening it can be. It feels as though the world is collapsing, and you're losing control of yourself and your body.

What Are Panic Attacks?

A panic attack is not merely experiencing stress. It is an acute condition that can occur at any time and place, usually peaking within 10 minutes. The symptoms of a panic attack are varied and include:

• Heart palpitations or increased heart rate.
• Sweating and chills.
• Trembling or internal shaking.
• Shortness of breath or a sensation of being unable to breathe.
• Feeling of choking.
• Chest pain.
• Nausea or abdominal discomfort.
• Dizziness or a sense of losing balance.
• Feeling of unreality or detachment from oneself.
• Fear of losing control or a feeling of impending doom.

These symptoms can mimic those of a heart attack, often exacerbating the panic and leading individuals to seek emergency medical help. However, physical causes are generally absent, and the situation is linked to the body's response to stress.

Causes of Panic Attacks

The causes of panic attacks are not entirely understood, but several key factors may contribute to their occurrence:

1. Genetics: Research indicates that a tendency towards panic attacks can be hereditary. If there are individuals in your family suffering from panic disorder, it may increase your likelihood of developing it.

2. Biochemical Changes in the Brain: Changes in neurotransmitter levels, such as serotonin and norepinephrine, may contribute to panic attacks.

3. Stress and Trauma: Chronic stress, past psychological traumas, the loss of a loved one, or significant life changes can act as triggers for panic attacks.

4. Behavioral Factors: Increased anxiety and fear of panic attacks can also amplify their frequency. Avoidance of certain situations and places can worsen the problem.

5. Medical Conditions: Some health conditions, such as hypoglycemia, hyperthyroidism, or mitral valve prolapse, can increase the risk of panic attacks.

How Panic Attacks Affect Everyday Life

Panic attacks have a significant impact on a person's daily life, making routine tasks challenging and decreasing the quality of life. Those who suffer from panic attacks often face:

• Restriction of social activities: Due to fear of attacks, individuals start avoiding public places, reducing social contacts and social life quality.

• Work-related problems: Constant feelings of fear and anxiety hinder concentration on tasks, leading to decreased productivity and conflicts with colleagues.

• Difficulties in personal relationships: Panic attacks can cause misunderstandings and conflicts in relationships with loved ones, especially if they do not comprehend the problem.

• Development of agoraphobia: Fear of new attacks may lead to agoraphobia, where a person becomes afraid to leave home.

Methods of Dealing with Panic Attacks

Managing panic attacks requires a comprehensive approach, and each individual can find effective methods of coping:

1. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): CBT helps to change negative thoughts and behaviors related to panic attacks. It teaches how to recognize and manage triggers and develop strategies to handle attacks.

2. Medication Therapy: A doctor may prescribe antidepressants or anti-anxiety medications to reduce the frequency and intensity of attacks.

3. Breathing Exercises: Controlling your breathing is one of the most effective ways to calm down during a panic attack. Deep, slow breathing helps reduce physical symptoms and regain control over the body.

4. Regular Physical Activity: Exercise helps to relieve stress and tension by increasing endorphin levels and improving the body's overall condition.

5. Learning Relaxation Techniques: Meditation, yoga, and progressive muscle relaxation can help reduce stress and anxiety levels.

6. Psychologist Support: Working with a psychologist or psychotherapist can be particularly helpful in analyzing the deep-seated causes of panic attacks and developing strategies to overcome them.

Panic attacks are a serious condition that can significantly affect one's quality of life. However, it's crucial to remember that you're not alone, and there are ways to deal with this problem. If you are facing panic attacks and don't know how to overcome them, don't hesitate to seek help from professionals. Our portal offers experienced specialists who will help you cope with panic attacks, develop an individualized treatment plan, and regain control over your life. Submit an application on our website, and we'll help you take the first step toward recovery.