IN-PERSON APPOINTMENTS IN ST. PETERSBURG & VIRTUAL APPOINTMENTS THROUGHOUT FLORIDA
Panic Disorder
What is Panic Disorder?
Panic Disorder is an anxiety disorder characterized by recurrent, unexpected panic attacks. A panic attack is an abrupt surge of intense fear or intense discomfort that reaches a peak within minutes. These attacks can occur out of the blue or be triggered by a specific situation. The disorder is not just about having the attacks themselves, but also involves persistent worry about having future attacks (anticipatory anxiety) or maladaptive changes in behavior (such as avoidance) related to the attacks.
Common symptoms (of a panic attack) include:
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Palpitations, a pounding heart, or an accelerated heart rate
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Sweating
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Trembling or shaking
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Sensations of shortness of breath or smothering
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Feelings of choking
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Chest pain or discomfort
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Feeling dizzy, unsteady, lightheaded, or faint
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Chills or heat sensations
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Fear of losing control, "going crazy," or a fear of dying
Medication Management
Medication can be highly effective in controlling the symptoms of panic disorder.
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Antidepressants like SSRIs (Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors) and SNRIs (Serotonin-Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitors): These are the first-line medications. They are taken daily to help prevent panic attacks and reduce overall anxiety levels over the long term.
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Benzodiazepines: These medications may be prescribed for very short-term, as-needed use to provide rapid relief during a severe panic attack, but they are generally not a first-line or long-term solution.
Non-Pharmacological Strategies
Therapy is essential for developing long-term skills to manage the disorder.
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Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): This is the gold-standard psychotherapy for panic disorder. A key component is interoceptive exposure, which involves guided, repeated exposure to the physical sensations of a panic attack (e.g., intentionally elevating heart rate) in a safe setting. This helps to break the association between these sensations and the feeling of danger, reducing the fear of the attack itself.
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Relaxation Techniques: Learning skills like diaphragmatic breathing can help manage the physical symptoms of hyperventilation that often accompany a panic attack.
Our Approach: Your Partner in Your Mental Wellness Journey
As a PMHNP-BC, my practice is built on a foundation of respect and collaboration.
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Shared Decision-Making: You are the expert on your own life and experiences. My role is to provide the expert knowledge on diagnoses and treatments. Together, we will review all the options—medication, therapy, lifestyle changes—and decide on a path forward that feels right for you.
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Medication as a Tool, Not a Crutch: Medication can be an incredibly effective tool to "turn down the volume" on your symptoms, allowing you to engage more fully in therapy and daily life. My goal is always to find the lowest effective dose for the shortest necessary time.
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A Holistic View: My focus is not only on pills. We may also discuss sleep, nutrition, exercise, and other stress-reduction techniques. These non-pharmacological strategies can be essential for long-term, sustainable wellness.
Take the First Step Toward Relief
You don't have to manage your symptoms alone. If you're ready to explore a comprehensive, collaborative approach to mental wellness, I invite you to schedule online below.
