Panic Disorder: Breaking the Fear-of-Fear Cycle
Avoidance is the main driver of long-term disability.
Dr. Élise Rambert
Psychiatrist
In simple terms
Panic attacks are intense but brief. The disorder begins when fear of new attacks dominates daily life.
What you need to remember
- Avoid the avoidance trap — Avoiding places where attacks occurred leads to agoraphobia and progressive isolation.
- Treatment — CBT with interoceptive exposure is the gold standard
- During an attack — Slow breathing (4 in, 6 out), grounding techniques, remind yourself the symptoms are physiologically harmless and self-limited.
Sudden surge of fear with palpitations, chest tightness, breathlessness, dizziness, tingling, fear of losing control or dying. Peaks within 10 minutes.
Avoid the avoidance trap
Avoiding places where attacks occurred leads to agoraphobia and progressive isolation.
Treatment
- CBT with interoceptive exposure is the gold standard
- SSRIs are highly effective
- Avoid long-term benzodiazepines
During an attack
Slow breathing (4 in, 6 out), grounding techniques, remind yourself the symptoms are physiologically harmless and self-limited.
Panic disorder responds remarkably well to treatment: 70-90% improve substantially with CBT.
The words explained
Medical terms used above, in everyday language.
- Symptom
- A sign you can feel or see that something is wrong, like pain, tiredness or a rash.
When should you see a doctor?
- Your symptoms last more than a few weeks or keep coming back.
- They get worse quickly, or stop you doing everyday things.
- You notice sudden pain, breathing trouble, fainting or bleeding — seek urgent care.
- You already take medication and want to change anything about it.
This article explains general health information. It does not replace advice from your own doctor.
Frequently asked questions
- What is Panic Disorder: Breaking the Fear-of-Fear Cycle?
- Panic attacks are intense but brief. The disorder begins when fear of new attacks dominates daily life.
- What are the main symptoms or signs of Panic Disorder: Breaking the Fear-of-Fear Cycle?
- Common signs vary from person to person. The article above lists the symptoms to watch for, how they progress, and when they need medical attention.
- When should you see a doctor for Panic Disorder: Breaking the Fear-of-Fear Cycle?
- See a doctor if symptoms last more than a few weeks, get worse quickly, stop you doing everyday things, or if you notice sudden pain, breathing trouble, fainting or bleeding.
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