Panic

The initial experience of panic is related to the emotional captain of the brain, the amygdala, and an overreaction of the autonomic nervous system to stressful life events. The feelings of panic are caused by fear and stress, those bodily sensations are then misinterpreted by the brain, resulting in both increased fear and greater likelihood of additional panic attacks - a self perpetuating cycle.

About 50% of people will have a panic attack in their lifetime, but the impact of that experience on a person varies widely. Underlying fears and the extent of a person’s underlying anxiety can play a major role in determining if the experience of panic becomes a future problem. In essence, panic disorder is a phobia of bodily sensations; a false alarm going off in your brain.

If you’re looking for a counselor or therapist for panic in Chicago, Tandem Psychology may be the solution for you.

Experiencing panic on a single occasion can be really frightening, but does not inherently require treatment. The diagnosis of panic disorder requires two panic attacks. However, even a single experience of panic can cause other problems, and thus, may warrant therapy. If you are experiencing any of these, therapy can help:

• You won’t travel away from home or avoid enclosed transportation (CTA, cars, etc.)
• You avoid the places that you’ve experienced panic attacks in the past
• You are drinking more alcohol to reduce feelings of panic
• You are worried that you will have another panic attack
• You don’t believe you would be able to cope if you had another panic attack
• You are afraid you are going to die from panic symptoms
• Your normal routine has been disrupted by panic attacks
• Your relationships are worsen by panic attacks
• You might know that your fear is unreasonable, but it persists nonetheless

Absolutely! In fact, when panic disorder is present, but uncomplicated by other mental health conditions, some research indicates that up to ninety-five percent of people get better. On the contrary, untreated panic disorder can lead to problems with alcohol and other substance abuse as well as depression and more generalized anxiety.

Therapists at Tandem Psychology use research tested approaches to treat panic disorder. With your therapist you can learn to leave your home without feeling overwhelming anxiety, differentiate between current irrational fear and past emotional pain, understand the physiological underpinnings of panic, and improve your ability to cope.

Schedule an appointment at our Lakeview offices or via telehealth today! 

If you’re looking for help managing anxiety and panic, please schedule an in-person appointment at our Lakeview offices or a telehealth appointment to meet virtually. We have a team of exceptionally trained and experienced psychologists, social workers, and clinical counselors ready to help you overcome panic and general anxiety.