Panic attacks are sudden periods of intense anxiety which appear to have no obvious triggers or reasoning. They can happen when a person least expects it and can be very distressing and frightening for the sufferer. However, treatment for panic attacks is available and over the course of time and therapy, the sufferer can improve their condition. To alleviate panic attacks, Granada have devised recovery programmes that help victims to manage and reduce their panic attacks.
Many sufferers report feelings of being out of control, unable to free themselves or feeling trapped. Panic attacks also result in physical symptoms such as:
- Feeling faint, dizzy or light headed
- Feeling nauseous
- Abdominal discomfort
- Chest pains and shortness of breath
- Palpitations
- Fluctuating body temperature
- Hyperventilating
Panic attacks are distinguishable from other kinds of anxiety by the intensity of their symptoms as well as the immediate and unexpected manner in which they occur. Take a look at our symptoms of panic attacks page for more information.
The causes of panic are many and can include:
- Hereditary causes
- Biological causes
- Phobias
- Short-term emotional triggers
- Maintaining causes (situation avoidance, mistaken beliefs)
- Lack of assertiveness
- Medication
- Substance withdrawal
- Hyperventilation syndrome
- Situationally bound panic attacks
- Pharmacological triggers
- Chronic and/or serious illness
Whilst they can be overwhelming and debilitating, there are a number of ways of dealing with panic attacks. These include controlling your breathing, shifting your focus and challenging unhelpful thoughts.
The type and length of panic attack treatment is dependent on the individual's circumstances and the severity and complexity of the condition. Some patients are treated as outpatients, which means that they attend Granada for hourly sessions with their consultant, psychologist or therapist. Others require a more structured treatment approach which can include staying at a hospital recommended by Granada, for the duration of their panic attack treatment. Here, they take part in the psychological group programme as well as regular sessions with their consultant.
Because panic attacks typically occur without warning or for any logical reason, it is not possible to produce a specific panic attack recovery programme that suits the needs of everyone. Treatment options include self-help, one-to-one counselling and cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT).
CBT
CBT is an effective treatment for panic attacks. It works by focusing on the behaviours and thought patterns that are contributing to them, allowing you to look at your triggers and fears more realistically.
Medication
Panic attacks can be tackled effectively by a combination of therapy and medication. Your Granada consultant can discuss these options with you at an arranged appointment.
Self-help
Whilst professional treatment can make the biggest difference, there are several things that you can do to help to deal with panic attacks in between therapy sessions. These include:
- Avoiding smoking, alcohol and caffeine
- Learning how to control your breathing
- Practising relaxation techniques such as yoga, meditation etc.
- Spending more time with family and friends
- Exercising regularly - for at least 30 minutes several times a week
- Getting enough good quality sleep
