A panic attack is a sudden episode of intense fear that triggers severe physical reactions, sometimes even when there is no real danger or apparent cause. Panic attacks can be very frightening. When panic attacks occur, you might think you're losing control, having a heart attack, or even dying. They might occur once, but can also be repeating.
"It felt like the air suddenly left the room, and I couldn't understand why my heart was racing so fast."
Common Symptoms of Panic Attacks
- Sense of impending doom or danger
- Feeling like you are losing control of your body
- Feeling like you are 'going crazy' or dying
- Rapid, pounding heart rate
- Sweating and trembling or shaking
- Shortness of breathÂ
- Tightness in your throat
- Chills or hot flashes
- Nausea or abdominal cramping
- Numbness or tingling in the body
"I started avoiding places where I had random panic attacks, afraid that it would happen again in public."
​
"People don't understand how overwhelming it is to have your body take control so quickly and so intensely."
Understanding Panic Attacks
Evidence-Based Treatments
- CBT: Cognitive and behavioural techniques to navigate your panic attacks. For example, learning to reframe catastrophic thoughts and sensations that fuel panic.
- Exposure Therapy: Safely re-engaging with feared sensations and situations. With panic attacks, becoming more accepting of your own bodily sensations and changes is a particular kind of important exposure called 'Interoceptive Exposure'.
- Mindfulness & Grounding: Practical tools to stay present during physical distress, while also being able to focus on other important areas of your life when they are important.
At Isaacs Psychology, we provide specialized evidence-based support to help you manage and overcome panic attacks. Our approach is warm, validating, and focused on helping you reclaim your life through proven psychological strategies to mitigate panic symptoms. We offer support with panic attacks to adults, teenangers/adolescents (12+), and parents, and our approach is based on your needs and particular concerns.
How We Can Help
