Panic Disorders
Many who suffer from panic disorders are unaware that they are suffering from a disorder at all. It’s more common than many people think; roughly 6 million American adults experience panic disorders each year. As a trusted therapist in Hermosa Beach, CA, I frequently work with clients who struggle with panic disorders. If left untreated, a panic disorder can lead to other fears and can significantly negatively impact one’s overall mental health and day to day functioning. If you believe that you are suffering from a panic disorder, please contact me today so that together we can begin therapy to address those issues holding you back from living the life that you want to lead.
What Are Panic Disorders?
Although most of us have experienced some fear and anxiety at some point in our lives, those with a panic disorder struggle with anxiety on a more frequent and intense or debilitating level. A panic disorder is a serious condition that strikes spontaneously, without any warning or reason. It typically begins to develop in teens and early adulthood, and women are twice more likely to develop this disorder than men. This disorder creates sudden disproportional feelings of fear, nervousness, or terror, when there is no real danger present. Individuals who suffer from panic attacks may feel as if they are losing control. As a result it can create many unpleasant physical symptoms as well.
What Are The Symptoms?
The physical symptoms of a panic attack, which happens quickly and can last up to 10 minutes, may include:
- Difficulty breathing
- Fast heartbeat or pounding heart
- Chest or stomach pain
- Intense feeling of dread
- Shortness of breath and breathing difficulty
- Sensation of choking or smothering
- Dizziness, feeling faint, or weakness
- Trembling or shaking
- Sweating
- Nausea
- Tingling or numbness in the hands, fingers, and toes
- Chills or hot flashes
- A fear that you are losing control or are about to die
Panic attacks are only a part of the symptoms of a panic disorder. They often can lead to other serious conditions, like depression and substance abuse. One major symptom of those who suffer from panic disorders is living in constant fear of future panic attacks. This can cause people to develop agoraphobia (not wanting to leave one’s home) and a tendency to avoid places or situations where previous panic attacks have occurred, both of which can significantly affect day to day functioning and overall quality of life.
How To Treat Panic Disorders
Don’t suffer in silence. The first step to treating a panic disorder is to talk to a doctor about your symptoms. After your physician performs an exam to ensure there are no other physical problems causing your symptoms, they might suggest therapy. In my Hermosa Beach private practice, my staff therapists and I offer various treatment options to get you back on your feet. Panic disorders will not go away on their own. This is why it’s important to see a qualified therapist to discuss what you are going through. There are many causes for panic disorders, so whether you’re looking for therapy for yourself or therapy for your teen, please don’t hesitate to call me at (310) 892-2572 or contact me online so that we can begin the healing process.