Panic Attacks
A panic attack is a palpable episode of acute fear or apprehension that includes physical and psychological responses, which arise even when one seems to be in no real danger. For many, they can be very overwhelming, like losing control or feeling like a life-
threatening event is about to occur. Although very distressing, we can help you with the proper support and care.
Sensations of panic are complex, but we at Janneta K. Bohlander & Associates understand this and provide individualized treatment plans that are easy, effective, and specific to your needs. Whether you are having panic attacks at work, at home, or during sleep, there is hope. Help is available for you.
What are Panic Attacks?
A panic attack is an intense episode of fear or anxiety that hits without warning and subsides within about 10 minutes. The manifestations include accelerating heartbeat, perspiration, tremors, shortness of breath, and even chest pain and panic attacks. The fear of having the attack without previous warning is exceptionally frightening.
Nocturnal Panic Attacks: A panic attack that occurs during sleep, waking the person with terror. They break rest and make it hard to go back to sleep.
Silent Panic Attacks: Those attacks are not necessarily associated with outward physical indications but may create intense internal distress. Others may not notice quickly, but the emotional and mental toll is enormous.
Panic Attacks in Children: While it is most commonly associated with adults, fits of terror in children are not unknown. Sometimes, a child cannot let anybody know what they are going through. Such attacks can be confusing and threatening for children and their caregivers.
Panic Attacks at Night
It can be upsetting when nighttime anxiety boils over into attacks. Being shocked awake in the middle of sleep is frightening and typically leaves people tired and edgy the next day. Many people do not fall back asleep afterward, which can contribute to the persistence of sleep disturbances, keeping the state of anxiety heightened. Nighttime panic attacks can be a component of a diagnosis of panic disorder.
What Causes Panic Attacks?
The causes of panic attacks include genetic, biological, and environmental factors. However, often a trigger can set
off an attack and may consist of any of the following:
Stress/Anxiety: There is a sense in the individual that they can’t cope with things around them. High levels of chronic stress or anxiety overwhelm the body, and because of this, attacks can occur.
Genetics: If you have a family history of relatives experiencing panic attacks or other related anxiety disorders, your risk factor is increased.
Trauma: Going through or seeing others experience a traumatic event can trigger the start of a panic disorder.
Medical Conditions: Some conditions—perhaps heart problems or thyroid dysfunction—can trigger attacks.
These triggers and knowing what can initiate attacks will help individuals control and prevent more episodes.
Treatment for Panic Disorder
Therapy
One of the most effective types of treatments for panic disorder is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). This form of therapy helps the client understand how to alter thought patterns that lead to anxiety attacks. At Janneta K. Bohlander & Associates, we have experience in CBT and other therapeutic methods to help you improve your mental health challenges.
Medication
For some patients, medication is the most essential part of their treatment. The best medication for panic episodes varies with the patient, but some options include antidepressants, benzodiazepines, or Buspar (buspirone), which is an anti-anxiety and anti-panic medication. A physician can provide medication to treat panic attacks, in addition to other treatments to help alleviate symptoms.
Lifestyle Changes
How to Cure Panic Attacks Fast?
One of the most asked questions is, “How do you cure these attacks fast?
Well, of course, there is no quick fix. However, there are easy things that will help you cope with anxiety and will keep you calm in that moment:
- Deep Breathing: Focus on slow, deep breaths for your body to calm.
- Grounding Techniques: Use your senses to feel anchored in your surroundings; otherwise, panic carries you away with the perception of being elsewhere.
- Affirmations: You would tell yourself that this is but a temporary feeling and that you are the master of your own emotions.
When panic hits you at the office or a mall, you can use these techniques to calm down and get on with your day.
Panic Disorder ICD 10 Codes
Seeking Help
Panic attacks can be quite debilitating; However, with the right treatment and support, you can learn to control or overcome them. At Janneta K. Bohlander & Associates, you will be invited into an empathetic and professional setting where we can explore the best treatment options for your needs.
If this is the right time for you to explore ways to enhance your quality of life, our staff is prepared to walk alongside you every step of the way. As a program, we treat nocturnal panic attacks, night panic attacks, and anything else that might just be necessary to help you overcome your anxiety better. A personalized approach will ensure you get as much attention as possible.
Why Choose Us?
- Experienced Therapists: Our experienced practitioners are licensed therapists specializing in several mental illnesses.
- Customized Treatment Plans: We will help create treatment plans that fit best and meet your needs.
- Integrative Cure: We focus on the mental and physical issues to help you get balanced.
Regain Control Today
You don’t need to exist in fear of the next panic attack. Call today for an appointment and start on the road to peaceful living again.
Don’t let panic attacks be the driving force that controls your life. Call Janneta K. Bohlander & Associates today, and together, let us take back control step by step.
Contact us now
Panic Attacks:
Panic attacks typically last for several minutes, though they can feel like they go on forever. They are usually most intense for about 10 minutes. Some symptoms may last for a longer time, but the intense feeling of the attack tends to subside after about 10 to 20 minutes.
While it may not be possible to completely eliminate panic attacks forever, treatment strategies such as cognitive behavioral therapy, medication, and lifestyle changes can significantly reduce their frequency and severity. It’s important to seek professional help to manage panic attacks effectively.
Techniques to manage nighttime panic attacks can include maintaining a regular sleep schedule, practicing good sleep hygiene, using relaxation techniques before bed, and seeking therapy to manage underlying stress or anxiety. Medication may also be recommended by a healthcare provider.
During a panic attack, it can help to practice deep breathing, ground yourself by focusing on your surroundings, and remind yourself that the panic attack will pass. However, these are only immediate coping mechanisms. Long-term management typically requires therapy, lifestyle adjustments, and sometimes medication.
