What is a Panic Attack?

A panic attack is an intense surge of fear or discomfort that reaches its peak within minutes. It often comes out of the blue and can leave a person feeling overwhelmed, out of control, or like they are in immediate danger. One of the worst things about panic attacks is the intense fear that you’ll have another one. You may fear having panic attacks so much that you avoid certain situations where they may occur.

Common symptoms of a panic attack include:

  • Sense of impending doom or danger
  • Fear of loss of control or death
  • Rapid heart beat
  • Sweating or chills
  • Trembling or shaking
  • Shortness of breath or tightness in your throat
  • Hot flashes
  • Nausea or stomach cramping
  • Chest pain or discomfort
  • Headache
  • Dizziness, light-headedness or faintness
  • Numbness or tingling sensation
  • Feeling of unreality or detachment

How Panic Attack Treatment with a Psychotherapist Can Help

Psychotherapy has been found to effectively treat panic attacks or panic disorder.

Through psychotherapy, a mental health specialist can assist you in working through unresolved issues and feelings. Additionally, a therapist can help you develop healthier ways of thinking and behaving that will help you deal with your symptoms.

Psychotherapy, particularly Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), is an effective approach for treating panic attacks. Here’s how a psychotherapist can help:

  • Identify Triggers: Discovering the specific triggers or situations that lead to panic attacks.
  • Develop Coping Strategies: Learning techniques to manage anxiety and prevent panic attacks.
  • Challenge Negative Thoughts: Identifying and restructuring irrational or catastrophic thoughts that fuel anxiety.
  • Exposure Therapy: Gradual exposure to fear-inducing situations in a safe, controlled environment to reduce avoidance behavior.
  • Relaxation Techniques: Teaching relaxation exercises, such as deep breathing or progressive muscle relaxation, to calm the body and mind.

Another method used is Panic-Focused Psychodynamic Psychotherapy.  Panic-focused psycho-dynamic psychotherapy (PFPP) is another therapeutic method used in the treatment of panic disorder. This form of psychotherapy aims to uncover past experiences and emotional conflicts that may have influenced the development of your panic and anxiety.

PFPP helps you recognize unconscious conflicts—particularly around anger—and resolve these conflicts in less frightening and more constructive ways. By coming to better terms with certain conflicts, fantasies, and behaviors, you may be able to overcome your issues with panic disorder.

Lifestyle Changes

Making changes to your daily habits may also help you reduce symptoms of panic disorder. These changes could include:

  • Avoiding caffeine
  • Exercising regularly
  • Getting enough sleep
  • Quitting smoking

Taking steps to manage your daily stress levels may also help. Practicing mindfulness meditation, yoga, or another calming activity may help control your anxiety levels and reduce your symptoms.

Why Choose Panic Attack Therapy in Sydney?

  • Tailored Approach: Personalized therapy plans tailored to individual needs.
  • Convenience: Easy access to face-to-face sessions or telehealth options.
  • Experienced Professional: A qualified psychotherapist with expertise in treating panic attacks.

Take the First Step Towards Panic Attack Relief

In conclusion, panic attacks can be overwhelming, but with the right panic attack treatment or therapy, recovery is within reach. At panic attack treatment Sydney, we specialise in helping individuals understand and manage their panic attacks for a calmer, more balanced life. Reach out today to begin your journey to recovery.

 

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