Some people will treat their Panic Disorder with drugs, and others will use drugs in line with therapy. For some patients, therapy may be all they need, and there are several modalities used to help patients overcome Panic Disorder. There are two main therapies used today.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) – By far the most frequently recommended treatment is CBT. This consists of identifying the triggers that lead to panic attacks and devising methods of relieving the urge to panic by training the mind to focus on other things the moment it begins to become unsettled. This often involves imagining worst case scenarios and following, with the therapist, these worst case scenarios through to their conclusion.
By recognizing the factors below the surface that make them the most fearful, and what happens following an occurrence, it becomes clear what the factors are. They move from unknown to real, and make it easier to address. Short term drugs may be prescribed in order to minimize the strongest aspects of the Panic Attack while training the mind. Moving forward, the drug treatments become less necessary because the mind becomes stronger over time and more able to overcome the symptoms.
Exposure Therapy – Where the causes of Panic Disorder are easily recognized, for example when Panic Disorder develops as a result of agoraphobia, treatment using exposure therapy may be of benefit. This consists of exposing, under controlled circumstances and situations, the patient to the focal point that triggers their panic. They can then learn methods that teach them to control and reduce the effects of the alarm.
Regular breathing, calming down the mind and relaxation techniques can minimize the harsh nature of the attack if they use them the moment the Panic Attack begins. This will bring about stable thinking, reduce blind panic, and empowers the patient to reduce the fear that they feel coming on. Exposure Therapy can be paired with prescription medications for a short term period, while aiding in identifying triggers that can cause one to panic.
By using techniques that are well known to fight the cause of Panic Disorder, a patient is addressing the source of the problem and not just hiding the symptoms by using drugs. For many patients, this means full recovery.
Lastly, when dealing with medical and psychological conditions, you should talk to your family practitioner about your symptoms. Patients that believe they have a phobia or panic symptoms with no realized cause, they should tell their doctor up front. The family practitioner can refer them to a specialist in the area of Panic Disorder.
Looking to find the best source for Releasing Panic Attacks? Visit www.stressfreeport.com to find the best advice on Start Reducing Stress NOW for you.