Treatment Of Panic AttacksThere is no denying that our hectic lives are leading to an increase of cases of panic attacks. We live in a world of constant stimulation and high expectations, these have lead to increased stress levels and consequently mental illness is increasing, with panic attacks leading the pack. What Are The Symptoms Of Panic Attacks Many people are unaware of the symptoms of panic attacks, this ignorance is leading people to ignore their situation and to try to carry on without treatment or reviewing their lives. The symptoms of panic attacks vary from person to person, and accordingly the treatment for panic attacks need to be tailored to the individual. During a panic attack there are physical symptoms, many people believe they are suffering a heart attack. These are caused by increased stress levels and to prevent the physical symptoms from recurring it is necessary to address the triggers which caused the stress. Treatment for Panic Attacks Treatment of panic attacks is usually divided between medication and therapy. Therapy will usually be in the form of psychotherapy or cognitive behavioral therapy. Cognitive behavioral therapy works through reassuring the patient that the fears they have which have caused the panic attack are irrational and out of proportion. Psychotherapy and cognitive-behavioral therapy work well as panic attack treatments as they help to minimize the fearfulness of symptoms, by giving the patient reassurance that panic will not lead to the cataclysmic events they fear, such as a heart attack. These panic attack treatments help people to deal with panic symptoms, using techniques like muscle and breathing relaxation. But this panic disorder treatment is a long-term process, more time-consuming and more expensive in the short run. There might also be a stigma attached in having to seek ‘therapy’ as a panic attack treatment, but you shouldn’t worry about this. On the plus side, panic attacks return less often after psychotherapy than with medication. And there is no risk of “side effects”. Alternative treatments like meditation and relaxation therapy are also often used to help relax the body and relieve anxiety. Medication The most frequently used medications as a panic attack treatment are the selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) such as Prozac, Paxil, Celexa and Zoloft. These are considered the first line of defense for panic disorders. Antidepressants, such as Tofranil, often help reduce anxiety and the frequency and severity of panic attacks, and anti-anxiety medications such as Xanax and Ativan are useful for the first stages of medical therapy. Medication as a panic attack treatment is often faster than therapy, but there are disadvantages. Many of these medications are addictive, and you usually build up a tolerance after 3-4 weeks, so you constantly need a higher dose. Side effects are always a possibility, ranging from nausea to heightened anxiety. Statistically, panic attacks return about 80% of the time, after stopping medication. The ideal solution is a combination of these therapies, and it’s important not to hope for a quick fix. Therapy takes time, and progress comes in little steps. Go easy on yourself. Other articles you might like;
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