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Thanks
to the National Institute of Mental Health
for the following information.
What is panic disorder? -
2
Panic disorder is a real
illness. It can be treated with medicine or therapy.
If you have panic
disorder, you feel suddenly terrified for no reason. These frequent bursts
of terror are called panic attacks. During a panic attack, you also have
scary physical feelings like a fast heartbeat, trouble breathing, or
dizziness.
Panic attacks can happen
at any time and any place without warning. They often happen in grocery
stores, malls, crowds, or while traveling.
You may live in constant
fear of another attack and may stay away from places where you have had an
attack. For some people, fear takes over their lives and they are unable
to leave their homes.
Panic attacks don't last long, but they are so scary they feel like they
go on forever.
When does panic
disorder start and how long does it last?
It usually starts when people are young adults, around 18 to 24 years old.
Sometimes it starts when a person is under a lot of stress, for example
after the death of a loved one or after having a baby.
Anyone can have panic
disorder, but more women than men have the illness. It sometimes runs in
families.
Panic disorder can last
for a few months or for many years.
Am I the only
person with this illness?
No. You are not alone. In any year, 2.4 million Americans have panic
disorder.
What can I do to
help myself?
Talk to your doctor about your fear and panic attacks. Tell your doctor if
the panic attacks keep you from doing everyday things and living your
life. You may want to show your doctor this booklet. It can help you
explain how you feel. Ask your doctor for a checkup to make sure you don't
have some other illness.
Ask your doctor if he or
she has helped other people with panic disorder. Special training helps
doctors treat people with panic disorder. If your doctor doesn't have
special training, ask for the name of a doctor or counselor who does.
Get more information.
Call 1-866-615-6464 to have free information mailed to you.
You can feel better.
Part 1 | Part 2
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