Panic Disorder is reported to affect 2 to 3 percent of adults and adolescents in the United States. Generally, this pattern can emerge by the age of 14 but most commonly starts to affect those who are between 20 – 24 years of age. Many people who struggle with recurrent and severe panic attacks will not seek counseling. Even though symptoms may give way to periods or relief or remission, without help, these “fearful spells” could continue and become chronic.
A panic attack causes the fastest and most complex reaction known within the human body. It quickly alters the functioning of the body, throwing physical or biological systems into imbalance. When panic occurs, a collection of symptoms can include:
- Palpitations, pounding heart, or accelerated heart rate
- Sweating
- Trembling or shaking
- Sensations or shortness of breath or smothering
- Feelings of Choking
- Severe nausea
- Numbness or tingling in the extremities
- Fear of Losing control
- Fear of dying
(Adapted from Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 5th Ed., 2013)
Severe panic attacks have been identified as having three possible sources:
- Associated major physical problems (such as hypertension, or hyperthyroidism)
- Associated minor physical problems (such as a side effects of various medications)
- Psychological Factors (such as chronic stress reaction, or result of untreated anxiety symptoms)
The causes of panic attacks can be complex. Therefore, it is important to seek professional help. At Christian Counseling Associates, we work with community physicians who can diagnose possible physical health problems. Our counselors work in partnership with physicians to evaluate psychological factors that may contribute or be central to the problem. Because of the complexity of how panic develops, having a team of professionals working together is a key factor in successful treatment. Ultimately, there is a healing path that is available for all anxiety. Professionals are important, but social support is always a large factor. Ultimately, the church is the place for healing, growth, and supportive community relationships. Above all, the healing power of Jesus Christ is working in this community.
“For it is He who delivers you from the snare of the trapper and from the deadly pestilence.
He will cover you with His pinions, and under His wings you may seek refuge; His faithfulness is a shield and bulwark. You will not be afraid of the terror by night, or of the arrow that flies by day; of the pestilence that stalks in darkness or of the destruction that lays waste at noon.”
Psalm 91:3-6
Panic attacks can become unmanageable, especially when they develop in conjunction with other health problems. Panic disorder can be disabling, affecting personal relationships, ability to work, and overall physical health. Possible chronic effects may include:
- Severe isolation due to fear of public places
- Drug addiction due to building a dependence on prescription tranquilizers, sedatives or alcohol
- Inability to work or maintain relationships
If you are struggling with a possible panic disorder, please know that there is help available.
Is your anxiety getting out of control? Freedom from anxiety is possible. Christian Counseling from Pittsburgh to Erie, Beaver to Johnstown, and all the points in between are available at Christian Counseling Associates. Our trained experts work with even the most severe forms of anxiety using specific, proven strategies that will help get your life back on track.
Join us next week for Mind Matters, as we look at the problem of addictions.
