How to Identify Panic Disorder

Panic disorder is a serious condition affecting millions of adults. It is much worse than having average fear and anxiety, and can strike suddenly without any apparent cause or warning. A panic attack is the main symptom of a panic disorder. It's an escalation of fear to extreme levels, and results in continued fear of subsequent panic attacks. These signs will help you identify panic disorder and the panic attacks associated with it.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Watch for unexpected spikes of fear and nervousness. These could be signs of a panic attack.

2. Monitor yourself for physical symptoms of a panic attack, such as: sweating, a racing heart, chest pain, problems breathing, feelings of choking or smothering, upset stomach, dizziness or faintness, trembling or shaking, numbness of fingers or toes, chills or hot flashes. These are all possible signs of a panic disorder.

3. Be alert to feelings of impending death, complete loss of control, loss of sanity, or extreme terror. These are possible signs of a panic attack.

4. Note whether you avoid public places for fear of having a panic attack. This too is a sign of panic disorder. The more panic attacks you have, the more you may fear having them. You may avoid contact with other people in order to prevent being observed during a panic attack.

Tips & Warnings

• Only a licensed therapist or counselor can accurately diagnose and treat you for a panic disorder.
• Panic disorders can be brought on due to genetics, abnormalities in the brain, stressful or traumatic life events, depression or substance abuse.

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