Gold standard treatment: How to effectively control panic attacks.
If you were to Google panic disorder, you can quickly return solid knowledge about this mental health condition. Namely, that it consists of discrete panic attacks when not in actual danger, with the primary fear being to avoid future panic attacks or bodily sensations. It’s commonly described as “fear of fear.” Heightened anxiety sensitivity (interpreting normal arousal sensations as harmful) and emotional avoidance representing two key factors in the development and maintenance of the condition.
The gold standard of treatment is a type of cognitive behavioral therapy that is highly specialized to panic disorder, and known as panic control treatment (PCT).
Strong efficacy has been found in the literature with statistics suggesting that 70% or greater of individuals completing PCT will experience greatly reduced symptoms, possibly symptom remission, and that these gains can be maintained long-term.
Here is a break down of Panic Control Treatment (PCT)
Comprehensive psychiatric assessment to make sure that this is the best treatment option for you and for what you are experiencing right now. Individuals may be experiencing panic attacks as part of panic disorder, or possibly related to a different mental health condition or life experience, such as posttraumatic stress, social anxiety, or borderline personality disorder. The initial assessment will help to address this question and guide the development of your treatment plan. PCT, or components of the treatment, likely will be indicated if panic disorder is your primary concern. It may still be addressed alongside or sequentially to other presenting problems as well.
Improve your breathing skills. Those that struggle with panic disorder tend to breathe shallow and from the chest. We will work to improve your capacity to breathe as deeply as you comfortably can.
Get to know and get more comfortable with your feelings, moods, and internal sensations. To include experiences other than just panic and anxiety. We’ll work to practice showing up to the difficult parts of ourselves and our lives so that we can make space for it, respond more effectively, and reduce our vulnerability to stress and anxiety more generally.
Know what a panic attack is and what it is not. You will become well versed with what a panic attack is, key symptoms, and myths. This will propel you forward into the treatment and as you take your next steps towards conquering your fear of panic.
Learn key skills and practice them. Identify and start acting opposite to thoughts that are maintaining fear over time. Slow down reactivity to internal sensations with specific strategies that will be designed and worked on collaboratively in session.
Start re-entering life spaces with increasing independence and confidence. The program is anticipated to last for about 12 weekly sessions though will be personalized as needed. Monthly booster sessions afterwards have been associated with positive outcome maintenance.
Please reach out if you’d like my support with managing your panic attacks or to learn more about offered therapy services.
Licensed Clinical Psychologist
Reference
Craske, M., & Barlow, D. (2022). Mastery of Your Anxiety and Panic: Therapist Guide (5th ed.). Oxford University Press.
