The specific fears that an individual may experience with panic disorder can vary from one person to the next. Some of the most common fears; however, include a fear of dying from a panic attack, having a heart attack, going crazy or insane or a fear of losing control. Therefore, one of the most important next steps in treating panic disorder is to tell yourself, and keep telling yourself, that this is a perception only. Tell yourself daily, several times if necessary, that you are not going to die from an attack or go crazy. It might even be helpful to write down such affirmations and read them to yourself when you feel such fears overwhelming you. This is a good way to get control of the situation as well as prevent possible further problems such as agoraphobia, depression and possible alcohol/drug abuse and addiction. One of the best advantages of this treatment technique is that you can use it anytime and anywhere.
It is also important to begin analyzing what may have triggered your attacks. As previously mentioned, this can sometimes be a difficult task because at first glance it may appear as though there was no specific trigger. Upon further investigation; however, you will more than likely find there is a connection between the first attack you experienced and some type of stress in your life at the time.
Brenna, Bilingual Health Educator
