Panic Disorder
Living with panic disorder often feels like being trapped in a horror movie. You are constantly terrified of when it, the panic attacks, will return: "What if it comes back? What if it ruins my plans? What if I can’t escape it? I don’t think I can survive if it happens again."
This constant worry can lead to major life adjustments, such as:
Avoiding places or situations that trigger anxiety for fear of another panic attack.
Repeating phrases like, “Don’t panic, don’t panic!” to try to control feelings of dread.
Monitoring physical sensations obsessively, fearing they could spiral into a panic attack.
Abandoning things that bring meaning to your life such as dating, hobbies, friends, or pursuing career opportunities for fear of experiencing new panic attacks
Overplanning everyday tasks, like driving or errands, to avoid potential triggers.
One of the most distressing aspects of panic attacks is the fear of fear itself. Your brain starts interpreting natural sensations, like a racing heart or heavy breathing, as dangerous. This creates a vicious cycle where panic feeds on itself, fueled by adrenaline and other stress hormones.
The Fear of Fear
The good news? Panic disorder is highly treatable with evidence-based therapies. Many clients report significant improvement in as few as 10 sessions, depending on the severity of their symptoms.
We use effective approaches such as:
Interoceptive Exposure Therapy: Gradually face anxiety-provoking sensations in a safe environment to reduce sensitivity to them.
Exposure & Response Prevention (ERP): Learn to engage with feared situations without resorting to avoidance or rigid coping strategies.
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT): Dr. Hayes, one of the founders of ACT, developed this treatment while recovering from panic disorder. He created this treatment to help others build confidence in experiencing anxiety while still pursuing the activities that make life meaningful.
If panic attacks are interfering with your life, we’re here to help. Whether you live in Dallas, Houston, or anywhere in Texas, contact OCD & Anxiety Recovery today to start your journey toward healing and reclaiming your freedom.