Treatment For Panic and Anxiety Attacks

Psychotherapy, medications, and lifestyle changes are all part of the treatment plan for panic and generalized anxiety disorder treatment disorders. Doctors can assist patients in managing their symptoms by determining what is the cause of the attack.

They may also prescribe beta-blockers, like diazepam or propranolol to slow the speed of a pulse. Psychotherapy is a method to overcome anxiety by speaking with the therapist.

Psychotherapy

A psychologist or psychiatrist can diagnose anxiety and provide counseling. People who suffer from panic attacks will visit their primary care provider who will look for any underlying medical issues. Depending on the cause of the panic attack, the PCP may refer the person to a mental health professional. The therapist can recommend cognitive behavioral therapy to reduce anxiety.

Cognitive behavioral therapy helps a person identify the behaviors and thinking patterns that trigger an episode of panic. Catastrophizing is one and also thinking that the worst could occur. This type of thinking is thought to be linked to chemical imbalances in the amygdala as well as brain circuits that are involved in processing anxiety treatment groups (Going On this page) and fear. The Therapist can help the client challenge these thoughts to reduce the chance of having an attack.

Another technique is to learn how to manage the physical symptoms of a panic attack. These include sweating and a pounding pulse. The therapist can coach the client to control their breathing, a technique called mindfulness meditation, which helps to relax. Additionally the therapist can guide the client how to create an effective sleep routine as well as strategies to reduce stress and anxiety treatment.

Therapists may also employ exposure therapy to help someone overcome the avoidance behavior that fuel anxiety. Someone suffering from agoraphobia, for example, might be encouraged to confront their fears, like crowds or public transportation -- one by one until they feel more comfortable.

Medications such as anti-anxiety or anti-panic medications, or benzodiazepines can be helpful in decreasing the severity of panic attacks. They aren't effective in treating the root causes. The long-term use of these medications can result in dependence and addiction. This makes it more difficult to break the cycle. Many therapists do not prescribe medication to treat panic disorder.

Some providers offer sliding scale fees for those with low incomes, or free services. If you are insured you can contact your insurance provider to determine what coverage they have available. Some therapists offer online sessions, which are beneficial for those who can't afford to attend in person.

Medications

Doctors frequently prescribe medications to treat anxiety attacks, in addition to therapy. Some antidepressants, anti-anxiety medications have been proven effective in decreasing the frequency, severity and duration of symptoms. They work by stabilizing the levels of chemical messengers known as neurotransmitters within your brain. The most popular medications used to treat anxiety attacks are selective serotonin reducers (SSRIs). These are a group of antidepressants which increase the amount of serotonin, a natural treatment for anxiety and panic attacks brain chemical that influences mood in your brain. SSRIs include sertraline (Zoloft), the escitalopram (Lexapro) and paroxetine (Paxil). Serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors, another type of antidepressant, can also decrease anxiety symptoms by increasing the amount of norepinephrine in your brain. This is a category of antidepressants that includes venlafaxine (Effexor), and duloxetine, (Cymbalta).

Beta blockers, which are typically prescribed to manage high blood pressure or heart issues, can also reduce anxiety symptoms, including rapid heart rate sweating, trembling voice and shaking hands. They aren't usually prescribed for panic disorder, but may be prescribed if a feared event triggers a panic episode.

Benzodiazepines can be used to treat anxiety symptoms quickly. They can be addictive, and withdrawal symptoms can occur if you abruptly stop taking them. You could also be in trouble if you combine them together with other depressants. They may only be suggested for short-term use by health professionals.

Your doctor will ask questions about your mental health as well as your family history and lifestyle if you suffer from recurrent attacks. They will determine if the attacks result from a medical issue, like thyroid disease and they will look for other factors that might contribute to the symptoms, like adverse childhood experiences or other stressors.

The most important aspect in managing panic attacks is understanding that they aren't harmful and figuring out how to deal with them. If you have the support of family members they can help by practicing relaxation techniques and avoid caffeine and other stimulants that could cause them to happen.

Lifestyle changes

It is important to seek out professional help if you are experiencing extreme anxiety or panic attacks. Psychotherapy and medication are often effective treatments for anxiety disorders.

Psychotherapy, also referred to as talk therapy, is a term that describes various psychological treatment techniques. One common type is cognitive behavioral therapy which teaches you to recognize and change unhealthy thoughts and emotions that trigger panic attacks. By altering your thoughts and behavior you can lessen or eliminate panic attacks.

Anti-anxiety medications can help in reducing anxiety and pandemonium. These medications, sometimes called tranquilizers, slow down the nervous system and produce the effect of sedation that makes you feel more relaxed. The most frequently prescribed anti-anxiety medication is benzodiazepines such as alprazolam (Xanax(r)) and lorazepam (Ativan(r)).

A healthy lifestyle can help relieve anxiety symptoms. Regular exercise can ease anxiety, release positive hormones and improve your mood. Avoiding caffeine, alcohol, and smoking can worsen anxiety symptoms. Sleeping enough is another key element to maintaining an active life style. Getting at least eight hours of rest every night can help reduce anxiety symptoms and improve cognition.

Engaging in social activities and spending time with friends and family can also help ease anxiety. Joining a support group can be a great way to meet others who have similar concerns and learn that you are not alone.

A wide range of alternative and complementary medicine (CAM) practices like yoga meditation and acupuncture demonstrate promising results for improving anxiety symptoms. Further clinical trials are needed to confirm these results. In the meantime you should moderately exercise throughout the week and consume healthy meals that are high in vegetables, fruits and proteins. Avoid foods that contain refined alcohol, caffeine, or sugar, since they can increase anxiety. Also do not take herbal supplements unless you discuss your doctor first.

Counseling

When a person has panic attacks it is possible that they experience different symptoms, including a pounding heart tightness in the chest shake, hyperventilation chills and dizziness. They may also think they're dying or suffering from an attack on their heart. The attacks usually last for a short period of time, but then fade. People who experience them frequently may be diagnosed with panic disorder.

Your doctor will require you to give an extensive medical history and conduct a physical examination in order to determine if panic attacks are present. You will be asked to describe your symptoms as well as the frequency they occur. They will also look for symptoms of other health conditions that could cause similar symptoms, like a thyroid problem or heart disease.

The most effective treatment for anxiety and panic attacks is psychotherapy, or talk therapy, in conjunction with an expert in mental health. It is generally advised to seek the help of a psychologist or psychiatrist. They can help you identify your triggers and teach you how to cope with them. They might also prescribe medication like antidepressants to reduce your symptoms and prevent the recurrence of symptoms.

Medications such as SSRIs (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors) or SNRIs (serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors), can decrease the frequency of your panic and anxiety attacks, but they won't make them completely go away. If the medications aren't working for you, your doctor can alter your dosage or switch to a different kind.

A counselor or therapist can help you manage your emotions. You may also opt for cognitive behavioral therapy to address unhelpful beliefs and thoughts. It can be a challenging process, but you will gain the tools to manage your anxiety. You can also get support from your family and friends as you learn how to manage your symptoms. In fact there are increasing numbers of medical professionals are recommending that spouses and partners join in on the treatment process to provide emotional and physical assistance. They can help you relax and calm when panic or anxiety attacks happen.