Panic Attacks & Panic Disorders: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatments

Panic Attacks are sudden waves of intense fear that strike without warning. They can feel overwhelming, frightening, and physically draining. Many people experiencing a panic attack think they are having a heart attack, fainting, or losing control. When these episodes happen repeatedly and start affecting daily life, it may indicate Panic Disorder, a type of anxiety disorder that requires timely care and treatment.

At Athena Okas, we work with individuals struggling with panic attacks and related mental health concerns. The goal is to understand what the mind and body are signaling, restore emotional balance, and build healthy coping responses that support daily functioning.

What is a Panic Attack?

A Panic Attack is a short period of sudden, intense fear or discomfort, usually peaking within 10 minutes. It may be triggered by stress, trauma, or sometimes, no obvious cause at all. Although panic attacks are not physically dangerous, they can feel extremely real and distressing.

Many people avoid places or situations where attacks previously occurred, leading to withdrawal from normal routines and social environments.

Common Panic Attack Symptoms

Panic attack symptoms may vary from person to person, but the most frequently reported include:

• Sudden, overwhelming fear
   
• Rapid heartbeat or chest pain
   
• Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
   
• Dizziness or feeling faint
   
• Sweating or chills
   
• Nausea or stomach discomfort
   
• Trembling or shaking
   
• Feeling disconnected from reality (derealization)
   
• Fear of losing control or dying

These symptoms are intense, often leading individuals to seek emergency care, believing something severe is happening physically.

Understanding Panic Disorder

Panic Disorder is diagnosed when panic attacks occur repeatedly, and the person begins to live in fear of having another one. Instead of being a one-time event, it becomes a persistent cycle of anxiety and avoidance.

Signs of Panic Disorder include:

• Frequent panic attacks that occur unexpectedly
   
• Constant worry about experiencing another episode
   
• Avoiding public spaces, crowds, or travel
   
• Feeling unsafe without a familiar person or “safe place”

The fear of the attack itself often becomes the biggest trigger.

Causes of Panic Attacks and Panic Disorder

There is no single cause. Panic attacks usually arise from a combination of psychological, biological, and environmental factors.

Possible causes include:

• Genetics: Family history of anxiety or panic disorder
   
• Stress: Major life changes or chronic stress build-up
   
• Trauma: Emotional or physical traumatic experiences
   
• Brain chemistry: Imbalance in neurotransmitters linked to mood regulation
   
• Health conditions: Thyroid issues, heart problems, or hormonal changes
   
• Substance use: Alcohol, caffeine, and stimulant use may increase risk

Understanding the root cause is essential for effective panic disorder treatment.

How Panic Attacks Affect Daily Life

If left unmanaged, panic attacks can disrupt daily functioning. Individuals may:

• Fear leaving home or working in high-pressure environments
   
• Avoid exercising because physical sensations mimic panic symptoms
   
• Withdraw from social interactions due to embarrassment or fear of judgment
   
• Experience sleep disruptions, fatigue, and concentration difficulties

Over time, this pattern may lead to depression disorder or a reduced sense of personal independence.

Diagnosis and Evaluation at Athena Okas

At Athena Okas, diagnosis is approached with sensitivity and structured clinical evaluation. Our mental health professionals assess:

• Frequency and duration of panic attacks
   
• Triggers and thought patterns
   
• Physical symptoms to rule out medical causes
   
• Co-occurring concerns like anxiety disorder or depression disorder

This helps create a personalized care plan that addresses emotional and physical health.

Treatment for Panic Attacks and Panic Disorder

Treatment aims to reduce the frequency and intensity of panic attacks while helping individuals regain confidence in daily life.

1. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

CBT helps individuals recognize and change thought patterns that trigger panic. It teaches grounding techniques, emotional awareness, and cognitive restructuring.

2. Exposure Therapy

Gradual exposure to situations that trigger anxiety helps reduce avoidance and strengthens emotional resilience.

3. Medication Support

In some cases, medications may be recommended to balance brain chemistry and support therapy progress. These may include:

• SSRIs (for long-term balance)
   
• Short-term anti-anxiety medications (as needed basis only)

Medication is always prescribed and monitored by a qualified psychiatrist.

 4. Relaxation and Breathing Training

Breathing techniques, mindfulness, and progressive muscle relaxation help manage the physical wave of panic in the moment.

Lifestyle and Routine Adjustments

• Regular sleep and meal schedules
   
• Reduced caffeine and sugar intake
   
• Consistent physical movement
   
• Limiting digital overstimulation

Healing requires consistency, patience, and professional support.

Panic Attacks vs Anxiety Attacks: Are They Different?

Yes. They often feel similar, but they are not the same.

Understanding the difference helps in choosing the right treatment approach.

When to Seek Support

You don’t have to handle panic attacks alone. With evidence-based treatment, care, and guided emotional support, it is possible to regain control, restore confidence, and improve daily well-being.

At Athena Okas, compassionate care is central to our approach. We work step-by-step with individuals to create realistic, personalized recovery plans that support long-term emotional stability.