Panic disorder is a mental health condition characterized by recurrent, unexpected panic attacks—intense episodes of fear or discomfort. Symptoms include rapid heartbeat, shortness of breath, dizziness, and a sense of losing control. These attacks can lead to ongoing worry and avoidance of situations, significantly impacting daily life.
“Living with panic disorder felt overwhelming—panic attacks would come out of nowhere, leaving me breathless and terrified. With treatment, I’ve learned to manage my triggers and feel more in control of my life.”
Panic disorder is characterized by recurring, unexpected panic attacks, but it can manifest in different ways depending on individual experiences and triggers.
Normally panic disorder involves sudden, intense fear or discomfort without an obvious cause. These episodes include symptoms like rapid heartbeat, dizziness, chest pain, and a sense of losing control.
Panic Disorder with Agoraphobia occurs when individuals fear and avoid places or situations where escaping might be difficult, such as crowded areas or public transport, due to concerns about having a panic attack.
Nocturnal Panic Disorder involves panic attacks occurring during sleep, waking the individual suddenly with intense fear and physical symptoms.
Situational Panic Disorder is triggered by specific situations, such as public speaking or entering enclosed spaces.
While the symptoms may vary, all forms of panic disorder can significantly impact daily life. Effective treatments like therapy and medication can help manage and reduce symptoms.
“Treatment for panic disorder focuses on helping patients regain control. Cognitive Behavioural Therapy teaches coping strategies to manage symptoms, while medication, when needed, can reduce attack frequency. Together, these approaches offer lasting relief and confidence.”
Symptoms of panic disorder include:
These symptoms can significantly affect daily life but are manageable with treatment.
At Bloomfield Health, we provide expert, evidence-based care for panic disorder, tailored to each individual’s needs. Our approach combines Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), which helps patients understand and manage triggers, with medication when necessary to reduce the frequency and intensity of panic attacks. Our multidisciplinary team of psychiatrists and psychologists ensures comprehensive support, focusing on long-term recovery and resilience. We create a safe, supportive environment where patients can develop practical coping strategies, regain confidence, and reclaim control over their lives. At Bloomfield Health, our goal is to help you overcome panic disorder and live a calmer, more fulfilling life.
Panic disorder involves recurrent, unexpected panic attacks—sudden episodes of intense fear with physical symptoms like a racing heart, shortness of breath, or dizziness. It can lead to ongoing fear of having more attacks.
Panic disorder can result from a combination of factors, including genetics, brain chemistry, stressful life events, or a heightened sensitivity to physical sensations, which can trigger fear responses.
Evidence-based treatments include Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), which addresses thought patterns and coping strategies, and medications like SSRIs, if needed, to reduce attack frequency and intensity.
The duration varies, but many patients see improvement in symptoms within 12–16 weeks of therapy. Medications may take 4–6 weeks to show benefits.
Not always. Many patients benefit from therapy alone, but medication may be recommended for severe or persistent symptoms to complement therapy.
While there’s no definitive “cure,” effective treatment helps most people manage symptoms, reduce attacks, and regain control over their lives.
Panic disorder can cause avoidance of situations or places, impacting work, relationships, and social activities. Treatment helps restore confidence and routine.
Yes, we provide online therapy and consultations to make care convenient and accessible, wherever you’re located.
We are registered by the Care Quality Commission (CQC),
the independent regulator of health and social care in England.
