Panic Disorder: Symptoms, Causes, & Treatment Options

July 21, 2025 thepsycho wellness

Panic attacks—sudden episodes of overwhelming fear or discomfort—are the hallmark of Panic Disorder, a debilitating anxiety condition that can mimic severe medical crises such as heart attacks. These attacks typically unfold without warning, sparking intense physical and emotional distress. Understanding Panic Disorder—including its symptoms, causes, and evidence-based treatments—is essential to delivering timely support and helping individuals regain control.

Table of Contents

What Is Panic Disorder?

Panic Disorder is characterized by recurrent, unexpected panic attacks that peak within minutes and often lack an identifiable trigger. Four or more of the following symptoms are indicative of a panic attack, according to the DSM-5 criteria:

Palpitations, accelerated heart rate
Sweating
Trembling or shaking
Shortness of breath or choking sensations
Chest pain
Nausea or abdominal distress
Dizziness or light-headedness
Chills or heat sensations
Paresthesias (numbness/tingling)
Derealization or depersonalization
Fear of losing control or “going crazy”
Fear of dying

Such attacks are often misinterpreted as life-threatening medical events, and individuals may develop ongoing anxiety about future episodes or change their behavior to avoid perceived triggers.

Causes and Risk Factors

Though the exact etiology of Panic Disorder is unknown, several contributing factors include:

Genetic predisposition, as anxiety disorders often run in families
Neurological factors, such as amygdala dysfunction and neurotransmitter imbalances (e.g., serotonin, GABA)
Life stressors, including trauma or major life events
Temperament, with individuals prone to heightened sensitivity or negative emotionality being more vulnerable
Substance use, such as excessive caffeine or drug use, can trigger attacks.

Impact on Daily Life

Panic Disorder can severely disrupt functioning:

Avoidance of public spaces due to anxiety about attacks
Decreased academic or work performance
Social withdrawal stemming from embarrassment or fear
Strained relationships through misunderstanding
Comorbidities such as depression or substance abuse
Sleep disturbance, fatigue, and emotional exhaustion

Left untreated, Panic Disorder may progress to social isolation and chronic distress.

Evidence‑Based Treatment Strategies

Psychotherapy

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is the gold standard, focusing on identifying maladaptive thought patterns and gradually exposing individuals to feared sensations or situations to reduce avoidance. Research shows that a typical course (~12–15 sessions) elicits significant improvement in symptoms and functioning.

Pharmacotherapy

As first-line drugs, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, or SSRIs, are advised. Benzodiazepines, while effective for acute relief, are usually reserved for short-term use due to dependency risks. The effectiveness of tricyclic antidepressants is thus on par with that of SSRIs.

Lifestyle and Complementary Approaches

Regular physical activity alleviates anxiety and boosts mood
Mindfulness therapy, deep breathing, and relaxation exercises to manage symptoms
Restricting stimulants that can cause fear, like caffeine

Comprehensive treatment plans tailored to individual needs tend to yield the best outcomes.

When to Seek Professional Help

Consult a healthcare provider if:

Panic attacks are recurrent and unexpected
Fear of relapse prompts major lifestyle changes
Physical symptoms resemble serious health issues
Anxiety impairs daily functioning despite self-care attempts

The quality of life and prognosis can be enhanced by prompt intervention.

In-Person Care at Psychowellness Center

Based in Delhi NCR, Psychowellness Center provides in-person, multidisciplinary treatment for Panic Disorder. Led by Dr. R. K. Suri—who brings over 40 years of clinical psychologist experience—alongside Ms. Sudipta Das and Mrs. Sheetal Chauhan, the team offers evidence-based therapies including CBT, mindfulness practices, and psychoeducation tailored to individual needs. Their client-centered approach fosters therapeutic alliance in a confidential, supportive environment.

Online Counselling via TalktoAngel

TalktoAngel provides accessible, confidential online counselling with the best psychologists in India, such as Dr. R.K. Suri, Ms. Sakshi Kochhar, Ms. Mansi, and Ms. Riya Rathi. They offer flexible, CBT-based interventions and mindfulness techniques customized to diverse client needs. Online delivery addresses barriers related to location, stigma, or constrained schedules, promoting consistent support.

Conclusion

Panic Disorder is a serious yet highly treatable anxiety condition. Understanding its triggers, developing coping strategies, and engaging in evidence-based therapies such as CBT and medication can dramatically improve outcomes. Whether through in-person sessions at Psychowellness Center and through online counselling with TalktoAngel, recognized as one of the best mental health wellness clinics in Delhi, professional support empowers individuals to reclaim emotional stability.

If panic attacks are disrupting daily life—for you or someone you care for—remember: effective help is available. Seeking support can transform fear into understanding, paving the way to a more confident and balanced life.

References

American Psychiatric Association. (2013). Diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders (5th ed.).

Cleveland Clinic. (2022). Panic attacks & panic disorder. Retrieved from https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/4451-panic-attack-panic-disorder Health+9Cleveland Clinic+9Wikipedia+9 AAFP+1Wikipedia+1 Verywell Mind+4Wikipedia+4Pediatric Oncall+4 AAFP+7Wikipedia+7Pediatric Oncall+7 Verywell Mind+2Pediatric Oncall+2Wikipedia+2 Verywell Mind Verywell Health

Merck Manuals. (n.d.). Panic attacks and panic disorder. Retrieved from https://www.merckmanuals.com/professional/psychiatric-disorders/anxiety-and-stressor-related-disorders/panic-attacks-and-panic-disorder Merck Manuals

Mayo Clinic. (n.d.). Panic attacks: Symptoms and causes. Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/panic-attacks/symptoms-causes/syc-20376021 Mayo Clinic

PubMed. (2003). Cognitive‑behavioral therapy for panic disorder: A review. Journal of Clinical Psychiatry, 64(1), 50–60. Wikipedia+15pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov+15Verywell Mind+15

Verywell Health. (2021, October). 10 ways to stop a panic attack. Retrieved from https://www.verywellhealth.com/how-to-stop-a-panic-attack-5202930 Verywell Health

Verywell Mind. (2020, May). Cognitive‑behavioral therapy for panic disorder. Retrieved from https://www.verywellmind.com/cognitive-behavioral-therapy-2584290 Verywell Mind

Wikipedia. (2025, July). Panic attack. Retrieved from https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Panic_attack

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