Panic Disorder Flashcards
What is a panic disorder
It is when someone has recurrent panic attacks AND so fearful of having another one they avoid going places. There is a constant worry about when the next Panic Attack will happen.
How do you distinguish a panic attack from panic disorder
Attack: FEAR driven
Disorder: ANXIETY driven
How is panic disorder akin to the ABC model
An alarm system that goes off randomly ( Major overreaction, btw).
What is the percentage of the population diagnosed with Panic Disorder
about 5 %
How does Panic Disorder affect gender
Women 2x more likely
When does panic disorder typical onset
late teenage years or early adult
Pearls about Panic Disorder
Spontaneous remission - 75% in 3 years
Anxiety in this disorder can become worse over time
Treatments for Panic Disorder
- CBT is the gold standard, you need this
- Modify lifestyle (Caffeine intake)
Acutely - Benzos but do not keep long term
Maintenance - SSRIs
Why do we worry about using Benzos long term with panic disorders
They can make panic attacks more severe and frequent
