Panic

In need of panic attack help? We offer panic attack treatment in Geelong through face-to-face counselling in a safe and supportive environment.

Panic isn't just fear; it's a sudden and intense surge of terror that can strike unexpectedly. It's like a false alarm in your mind and body, a rush of overwhelming fear and discomfort when there's no actual danger around. You might experience symptoms similar to a real threat: racing heart, sweating, trembling, and even chest pain. These panic attacks can be incredibly frightening, leaving you feeling out of control or as if you're facing impending doom.

Where Does Panic Come From?

While the exact cause of panic attacks or panic disorder isn't fully understood, factors like 

• Genetics
• Major stress 
• A tendency to react strongly to stress
• Overwhelming negative emotions 
• Your brain's fight-or-flight response, meant to protect you from danger, might trigger a panic attack even when there's no evident threat.

Recognising the Symptoms

Sudden Intense Fear: 

A surge of overwhelming fear or dread that arises unexpectedly without an obvious cause.

Physical Sensations: 

• Rapid Heartbeat: Heart palpitations, pounding heart, or accelerated heart rate.
• Shortness of Breath: Feeling like you can't catch your breath or experiencing a tightness in the chest.
• Sweating: Profuse sweating or sudden cold sweats.
• Trembling or Shaking: Uncontrollable shaking or trembling, particularly in the hands or limbs.
• Dizziness or Light-headedness: Feeling faint, dizzy, or lightheaded.
• Nausea or Stomach Discomfort: Upset stomach, nausea, or gastrointestinal distress.
• Chills or Hot Flashes: Sudden sensations of extreme heat or cold.
• Tingling or Numbness: Often experienced in the hands, feet, or face.
• Chest Pain or Discomfort: A feeling of tightness or pain in the chest, which may mimic symptoms of a heart attack.
• Feeling Detached: Sensations of unreality, feeling detached from oneself, or experiencing depersonalisation or derealisation.
• Fear of Losing Control or Dying: A strong sense of impending doom, fear of losing control, or fear of dying.

Duration and Intensity: 

Panic attacks typically peak within minutes, often reaching maximum intensity within 10 minutes, but the effects can last longer. Afterward, individuals may feel exhausted or drained.

What's worse is the fear of having another panic attack, leading to an avoidance of situations that might trigger them.

Who's Susceptible?

Panic disorder often starts in late teens or early adulthood, and it's more common in women than men. Factors like family history, major life stressors, traumatic events, or even excessive caffeine intake can increase the risk of experiencing panic attacks or developing panic disorder.

Managing Panic

• Taking Control: If you've experienced panic attacks, seeking medical help is essential. While panic attacks themselves aren't life-threatening, managing them on your own can be challenging. It's crucial to get evaluated by a healthcare provider to rule out other health problems and to start effective treatment.

• How Counselling Can Help Panic: Counselling plays an important role in helping individuals manage and overcome panic difficulties. Through psychotherapy like cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT), individuals can learn coping strategies to respond differently to the physical sensations and thoughts that trigger panic attacks. Exposure therapy, another facet of CBT, helps confront fears and gradually reduces avoidance behaviours.

• Finding the Right Approach: Treatment for panic disorder often combines therapy with medication. Antidepressants or anti-anxiety medications may be prescribed, alongside beta-blockers or benzodiazepines in certain situations. Psychoeducation, lifestyle changes, and relaxation techniques also complement therapeutic interventions. Chat to your GP if you're considering taking medication for a panic disorder. 

• Support and Education: Educating oneself and seeking support play vital roles in managing panic. Understanding the condition, its symptoms, and available treatments helps individuals and their loved ones navigate through the challenges. Open communication and seeking professional help when anxiety interferes with daily life are crucial steps toward relief.

Panic may feel overwhelming, but with the right guidance, support, and treatment, it's possible to regain control and find peace. Remember, you're not alone in this journey towards managing panic and reclaiming a sense of well-being.