Panic Attacks

A large number of people experience some type of panic attack(s) during their life. According to the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), close to 5% of the adult population experience a full blow panic attack during their lives. This statistic can be under reported as some people are too overtaken by these symptoms and for various reasons never seek help. Also, sometimes, these symptoms can be mistaken with other medical conditions. For some reason, females appear to be more affected than males (this can also reflect a tendency for males to be less inclined, at times, to seek help and, this, resulting in under-reporting). Panic attacks affect adults and also children. In children, panic disorder can be difficult to diagnose and can lead to multiple visits to pediatricians and other physicians. Without treatment, adolescents can drop out of school, withdraw, and become reclusive and suicidal.

Of those who report having a panic attack, about 45% report symptoms as serious, 30% as moderate, and the rest, approximately, 25% as mild. Regardless of the reported or perceived intensity, the symptoms are significant and affect the person psychologically and functionally at work, relationships, and/or socially.

Panic attacks can be caused by several factors: biological, psychological, stress, and/or medical conditions. Genetics can be one of the causes for experiencing panic attacks. The inheritance is most likely a tendency or vulnerability that increases the chances of developing panic attacks. However, genetics don’t make panic attacks inevitable. Maybe, if not, your beliefs about some physical symptoms being potentially harmful can contribute to having panic attacks. This can result also from a “Flight or Fight” situation where there is a perceived danger, and where our thoughts and beliefs can play a role on how we respond. However, for most people, the first panic attack occurred when undergoing intense stress (e.g. divorce, loss of job, health concerns about self or a loved one, financial pressures, marital or family discords, etc.). Coping when facing stressors can become more challenging that makes us feel as the world being threatening or dangerous. This, in turn, can result in some level of fear and loss of confidence. Finally, there are some medical conditions that can also trigger a panic attack such as: hyperthyroidism or a tumor on the adrenal gland (rare), certain medications (e.g. amphetamines), or even excess consumption of caffeine (coffee, energy drinks).

Whether you have experienced full-blown panic attacks or some of its symptoms, your life can feel like being held back. Often, the constant fear or worry of having another “attack” fuel a cycle that debilitates mental energy and that often results in remaining isolated or avoiding many healthy day-to-day activities or situations in an effort to avoid these painful symptoms. This cycle can then contribute to other mental health complications such as generalized anxiety, depression, loss of self-confidence, and performance decline across different areas.

Based on my professional experience in clinical and private settings, and with the right treatment approach and tools, any person can find ways to overcome these symptoms and regain control of their lives. Working as a team, I can help you cope and control these thoughts, beliefs and physical sensations so you can live free of any fear limiting your life and performance.