Panic Disorder
Affects 6 million American Adults
Definition
A type of anxiety disorder characterized by recurrent attacks of overwhelming anxiety that usually occur suddenly and unexpectedly
DSM category
Anxiety disorder ---> panic disorder ---> agoraphobia
(Major category) -------------------------------->(sub type)
Symptoms
- Palpitations
- Sweating
- Trembling
- Shortness of breath
- Chest pain nausea
- Dizziness
- Chills or hot flashes
Origin of Panic Disorder
It can be passed down from one of the parents. Also it can be caused by problems regulating the brain in the area that controls the flight or fight response (Panic Attacks 2016).
Treatment Options
Drug: Antidepressant and anti anxiety medicine (Answers to Your Question About Panic Disorder 2016).
Therapy: Cognitive Therapy is useful for panic disorder. It teaches a person different ways of thinking, behaving, and reacting to situations that help him or her feel less anxious and fearful (Panic Disorder 2016).
Gender, Age, and Cultural Features
Women are twice or more likely to be affected than men. Children can have it but it is more common in adults. Symptoms usually begin before age 25, however it usually is not correctly diagnosed for years (Gender Differences in Panic Disorder).
Case Study - Adele
Adele suffers from Panic disorder. It affects her because she feels so much pressure and anxiety when she goes out on stage. One time before a show in Amsterdam she had nerves so severe it led to acute nausea. This affects her fans because what if she is unable to perform. In an attempt to cope she uses an alter ego (10 People With Panic Disorder 2016).
Works Cited
"Panic Disorder." Well for Living - Fit for Life! Well for Living, 21 Feb. 2015. Web. 19 Jan. 2016. <http://wellforliving.co.uk/blog/2015/2/27/panic-disorder>.
Rob. "Eluxadoline." TummyHelp. TummyHelp, 2014. Web. 19 Jan. 2016.
Sheperd, Jack. "Watch Adele Perform." The Independent. Independent Digital News and
Media, 16 Nov. 2016. Web. 19 Jan. 2016. <http://www.independent.html>.