Panic disorder is an anxiety condition marked by recurrent and unexpected panic attacks -sudden waves of intense fear that can feel overwhelming and uncontrollable. These attacks often bring physical symptoms like a racing heart, shortness of breath, dizziness, or a sense of impending doom.
While panic attacks are not dangerous, they can be incredibly distressing. Over time, the fear of having another attack can lead to avoidance behaviours, making daily life feel smaller and more restricted. Unlike everyday anxiety, panic attacks can happen suddenly, even without an obvious trigger. If they’re recurring and causing significant distress, it may be time to seek support.
At The Victorian Psychology Clinic we recognise that panic disorder requires a tailored, evidence-based approach. In line with our values, we aim to work collaboratively with our clients, referrers and other professionals involved in our clients care including general practitioners, other allied health professionals and psychiatrists.
Signs and Symptoms of Panic Disorder
Panic Disorder involves both panic attacks and ongoing fear or avoidance that follows.
Common symptoms of a panic attack include:
- Pounding or racing heart (palpitations)
- Shortness of breath or feeling like you’re choking
- Dizziness, light headedness, or feeling faint
- Sweating, trembling, or chills
- Chest pain or discomfort
- Nausea or stomach upset
- Numbness or tingling sensations
- Feeling detached from reality or from yourself (derealisation or depersonalisation)
- Fear of losing control, going crazy, or dying.
- Avoiding certain places or situations where a panic attack has occurred.
- Steering clear of exercise or activities that cause a racing heart, fearing they might trigger an attack.
- Relying on safety behaviours, such as carrying water, staying near exits or only going out with a trusted person.
Without support, this avoidance can grow over time and may lead to agoraphobia, where individuals feel unable to be in public or outside of their safe spaces.
Treatment for Panic Disorder
The good news is that panic disorder is highly treatable, and many people see significant improvements with the right support.
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Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT): CBT is the gold standard treatment for panic disorder. It helps individuals understand the cycle of panic, challenge catastrophic thoughts, and develop new responses to physical sensations.
- Medications: In some cases, Antidepressant medications such as SSRIs and SNRIs may be recommended as part of treatment, particularly if panic attacks are severe and are impacting daily life. These are best discussed with a GP or psychiatrist.
- Exposure Therapy: Avoidance often reinforces panic, so gradual exposure to feared sensations or situations can reduce anxiety over time. This might involve safely confronting symptoms (e.g., practicing deep breathing despite a racing heart) to show the body that they are not dangerous.
- Breathing and Relaxation Strategies: Learning to regulate breathing and engage the body’s relaxation response can help reduce the intensity of panic attacks and build confidence in managing them.
How we can support you
At VPC, we offer evidence-based treatment for panic disorder in a supportive and non-judgmental environment. Here’s how we can assist you:
- We help you make sense of what’s happening in your body and mind so that panic attacks feel less unpredictable and overwhelming.
- Our psychologists use evidence-based techniques to help you regain control, including cognitive strategies, exposure therapy, and breathing techniques.
- We work at your pace to reduce avoidance and build confidence in facing situations that currently feel difficult.
- The goal is not just to stop panic attacks but to help you live freely without fear of them controlling your life.
You don’t have to live in fear of the next panic attack. With the right support, it’s possible to break free from the panic cycle and regain a sense of calm and confidence.
We have a number of clinicians who work with eating disorders. To learn more, please refer to our Psychologists page for clinician details.
If you are currently experiencing eating difficulties or body image concerns and would like to begin your journey to recovery, get in touch with us. We are here to help.