panic

The exact cause of panic disorders is unknown. Genetics may play a role. Studies suggest that if one identical twin has panic disorder, the other twin will also develop the condition 40% of the time. However, panic disorder often occurs in family members who are not blood relatives.

With panic disorder, at least four of the following symptoms suddenly occur within 10 minutes. Attacks may be followed by at least 1 month of persistent fear of having another attack.

Chest pain or discomfort
Dizziness or faintness
Fear of dying
Fear of losing control
Feeling of choking
Feelings of detachment
Feelings of unreality
Nausea or upset stomach
Numbness or tingling
Palpitations or pounding heart
Sensation of shortness of breath
Sweating, chills, or hot flashes
Trembling or shaking

There are often extreme changes in behavior at home, school, work, or with family. People with the disorder often worry about the significance of their panic attacks. They may think they are "going crazy" or having a heart attack.

Behavioral therapies are beneficial in the treatment of panic attacks. These include:

Cognitive-behavioral hypnotherapy
Cognitive restructuring (learning to recognize and replace panic-causing thoughts)
Exposure
Pleasant mental imagery
Relaxation techniques

Behavioral treatment appears to have long-lasting benefits. Regular exercise, adequate sleep, and regularly scheduled meals may help reduce the frequency of the attacks.

If you would like to discuss hypnotherapy for your panic attacks, please contact me using the information below.

595 Forest Avenue

Plymouth, MI 48170

(734) 644-6681

Email: info@changing-lanes.com