Panic Disorder: When Anxiety Attacks
By Bright Setorglo, PMHNP-BC · July 4, 2026
Panic Disorder: When Anxiety Attacks
Panic disorder affects approximately 2-3% of American adults. It's characterized by sudden, unexpected panic attacks — intense waves of fear that peak within minutes and feel overwhelming.
What Is a Panic Attack?
A panic attack is a sudden surge of intense fear or discomfort that reaches a peak within minutes. Symptoms include:
- Racing heartbeat or palpitations
- Sweating, trembling, or shaking
- Shortness of breath or feeling smothered
- Chest pain or discomfort
- Nausea or abdominal distress
- Dizziness, lightheadedness, or feeling faint
- Fear of losing control or 'going crazy'
- Fear of dying
Panic Disorder vs. General Anxiety
While general anxiety involves persistent worry, panic disorder specifically involves recurrent, unexpected panic attacks followed by at least one month of persistent concern about having another attack.
Treatment Options
Panic disorder is highly treatable. Effective approaches include:
- SSRIs/SNRIs: First-line medications that reduce attack frequency
- Benzodiazepines: Short-term relief for acute episodes
- CBT: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, especially exposure and interoceptive techniques
- Lifestyle: Regular exercise, limiting caffeine, sleep improvement
At PathToHope Wellness and Behavioral Health, we specialize in treating panic disorder through telepsychiatry, helping you regain control and confidence.
About the Author: Bright Setorglo, PMHNP-BC, is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and the founder of PathToHope Wellness and Behavioral Health Wellness & Behavioral Health. He provides comprehensive telepsychiatry services across Oregon, Texas, and Florida.