Panic disorderBy quinteza Hampton

Period1

The definition

Panic disorder mean an anxiety disorder marked by unpredictable minute long episodes of intense dread. In which a person experience a terror and accompanying chest pain chocking and other frightening sensations

The associated features

1) accelerated heart rate 6)chest pain

2)sweating 7) nausea

3) trembling or shaking 8) feeling dizzy

4) shortness of breath9) feeling detached from yourself

5) feeling of choking 10)fear of losing control

11) fear of dying. 12) numbness and

13) Chills or hot flushes

The etiology

The exact cause of panic disorder is not know, however several theories suggest the disorder develops based n a complex interaction of biological, genetic, environmental, and social factors and experience.

People who have phobias over certain conditions or things may get a panic or anxiety attack when they are brought face to face with the fear again.

The prevalence

The panic disorder is twice as common in women as in men.

The symptoms usually begin before the age 25 but may occur in the mid 30’s.

Although some panic disorder occur in children it is no diagnosed until they are older.

The treatment

Relaxation training: is a behavioral technique which is used in treating panic and agoraphobia disorder. In this technique the patient learns to relax all the muscles in the body.

Agoraphobia means a fear of open spaces or fear of being alone in a public place

Continuation of treatment

Cognitive behavioral therapy: is generally viewed as the most effective form of treatment for a panic attack. It focuses on thinking patterns and behaviors that are triggering te attacks it helps you to look at your fears in a more realistic light

Still treatment

Exposure therapy: in this treatment you are exposed to the physical sensations of panic in a safe and controlled environment helping you to learn healthier ways of coping.

The prognosis

Panic disorders may be long lasting and difficult to treat. Some people with this disorder may not be cured with treatment however most people can expect improvement with drug and behavioral therapies.

references

Halgrin ,R .P.& whitbourne, S.K (2005). Abnormal psychology: clinical perspectives on psychological disorder new York: McGraw Hill.

Myers D. G. (2011) Myers’ psychology for Ap. New York NY: worth publishers.

Discussion question

1) why is cognitive behavioral therapy more effective then exposure therapy