Panic Disorder Treatment
A panic disorder is a sudden, isolated episode of intense fear with physical symptoms. The panic disorder involves repeated, unexpected attacks with persistent worry and behavioural changes that disrupt daily life. Though the disorder is not life-threatening, the disorder must be taken seriously.
1–3%
Global population affected by Panic Disorder (lifetime prevalence)
1 in 20
People experience at least one panic attack in their lifetime
70–80%
Patients improve significantly with structured treatment
60%
Treatment gap in India due to stigma & lack of awareness
Introduction
The disorder must be diagnosed at the right time for a patient to lead a normal life. The best treatments for panic disorder now available are extremely effective as patients are able to recover completely.
Read on to learn more about panic disorder treatment without medication and ways to ensure long-term recovery.
Understanding Panic Disorder
A panic attack is a sudden surge of intense fear that causes strong physical symptoms despite absence of any real danger to the person. The attack is overwhelming , making a person feel that he or she is losing control, having a heart attack or dying. Some people experience only one or two attacks during stressful times.
However, it turns into a disorder when the frequency of these attacks increases.
What Does Treatment Include?
Panic disorder treatment is a combination of psychotherapy like talk therapy and panic disorder treatment medication. However, the best treatment for panic disorder includes structured care (when required), and relapse prevention.
Core Treatment Approaches
Medication Management
- Panic disorder treatment medication includes SSRIs (Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors) like fluoxetine, paroxetine, and sertraline. SNRIs (Serotonin-Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitors), which are prescribed to patients suffering from depression, might also be prescribed.
- SSRIs and SNRIs are those panic disorder treatment medications that work on mood improvement and mood regulation, respectively. Some psychiatrists prescribe these mood stabilisers depending on the condition of the patient.
- Antipsychotics and stimulants are also prescribed for behavioural control and better symptom management. Panic disorder medication treatment is decided by a psychiatrist based on individual’s response to the treatment. The decision also depends on other medicines being consumed by the patient for other health issues.
Psychotherapy
- Talk Therapy is the best treatment for panic disorder as patients talk through their feelings step-by-step. This panic disorder treatment without medication is when a trained mental health professional encourages open discussions to understand the causes.
- Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) is a research-based psychotherapy used to treat panic disorder. The panic anxiety disorder treatment technique aims to change unhelpful thoughts by reducing their frequency. Therapists observe patients as they respond consciously to triggers that incite anxiety and fear sensations.
- Exposure therapy is another panic disorder treatment technique of administering CBT. This panic disorder treatment without medication helps patients gradually face feared situations and beliefs. This panic disorder treatment technique aims to encourage patients to resume activities that were previously avoided due to panic symptoms.
- Introspective therapy is another panic anxiety disorder treatment technique under psychotherapy that involves safely experiencing physical sensations of panic to reduce fear. The therapy is often combined with relaxation exercises and breathing techniques.
Rehabilitation Care
- Panic anxiety disorder treatment includes supervised care which is provided to patients, especially those who opt for residential treatment plans. In severe cases, patients are kept under constant psychiatric supervision as a part of the best treatment for panic disorder to ensure full recovery.
- Best treatment for panic disorder includes framing of a structured and predictable routine. Patients are provided with nutritious food, a proper exercise regime and a supportive environment. Outdoor activities are included for a wholesome recovery.
- Medication adherence is essential when it comes to panic disorder medication treatment. Dosage is adjusted constantly and side-effects are monitored at all times.
Supportive Interventions
- Having a healthy diet, proper sleep completion is essential, and so is proper exercise. This makes panic disorder treatment without medication more effective.
- The best treatment for panic disorder includes surrounding yourself with people who understand your circumstances.
- Patients must make sure that they incorporate self-care habits in routine. Celebrating small achievements and not getting bogged down by minor setbacks is a must.
Aftercare & Relapse Prevention
- Regular follow-ups are an essential component of panic anxiety disorder treatment. Therapists assess the recurrence of symptoms to learn if personal and professional life is smooth or not.
- Progress under best treatment for panic disorder also includes adjustment of medication. A long-term stability plan is framed, which may or may not include medication.
- Lifestyle guidance under panic disorder treatment without medication is offered to enable independent management of symptoms. This reduces relapse risk and builds the patient’s confidence.
Panic Anxiety Disorder Treatment Pathway
Stage | What Happens |
Assessment | A detailed diagnosis is conducted to learn about the mental health of a patient. Therapists learn about the frequency of mood swings and change in appetite of a patient. The medical history of a patient is assessed to prescribe medication accordingly. |
Stabilisation | Medication and psychotherapy is started by professionals. The aim is to reduce the frequency and intensity of symptoms. However, safety and comfort of patients are also ensured as many patients are in denial. |
Active Phase | Regular therapy sessions are held and medication is adjusted continuously. Patients adopt coping mechanisms and start managing negative thoughts. The aim is to help them return to their original routine. Managing triggers is an important part of this step. |
Review | Progress is carefully monitored as patients might start skipping sessions as they start feeling better. The treatment is adjusted based on improvement of the condition. The side-effects of medication or therapy are assessed simultaneously. Emotional well-being is now initiated. |
Maintenance | Consistent support through therapy is recovered and promising aftercare is also offered. |
Treatment Duration
- Initial improvement: Symptoms seem manageable in the first few weeks. Change is noticeable in the first 2–8 weeks of the treatment but patients are under constant guidance.
- Active treatment: This stage of the treatment lasts the first 3–6 months. Patients start regular sessions of therapy and medication starts, if any.
- Maintenance: Patients are monitored continuously to ensure that the symptoms do not worsen. This supervision continues for a period of 6–24+ months depending on the severity of the condition. Patients are trained to manage their symptoms independently by educating them about their coping mechanisms.
- Rehab: The duration of the rehabilitation depends on the severity of the problem. In case patients do not feel better within 30-180 days of completion of the treatment, rehab is initiated. Therapists could start the therapy again and even prescribe medication depending on the severity of the problem. However, patients generally recover faster.
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Treatments
When Is Rehab Recommended?
Rehab is highly recommended as part of the best treatment for panic disorder if the following symptoms persist despite counselling and regular therapy.
- Getting aggressive or panicking during minor problems frequently.
- Patients develop agoraphobia or fear of safe places.
- In case symptoms do not improve with medication or outpatient therapy, therapists recommend rehabilitation.
- Overwhelming anxiety, depression, and suicidal thoughts and depression are other disorders that accompany panic disorders. Therefore, rehabilitation becomes inevitable in such cases.
Treatment Cost Guide
Service | Expected Range |
Psychiatrist Consultation | Rs 500 – Rs 3000 |
Medication | Rs 1,500 – Rs 15,000/month |
Therapy Session | Rs 1,000 – Rs 5,000/session |
Residential / Rehab Program | Rs 25,000 – Rs 2,50,000/month |
Cost varies based on the duration of the treatment, category of medication, therapist expertise, and the level of care needed by a patient.
Most Suitable Treatment Option Based on Case Type
Case Type | Suitable Panic Anxiety Disorder Treatment Approach |
Mild | Psychotherapy and multiple interview sessions are introduced at this stage. Medication is not recommended at this stage. |
Moderate | Psychotherapy and minor medication is administered at this stage. Sessions are arranged at regular intervals to address taboo related to mental health disorder and start therapy administration of therapy effectively. |
Severe/Chronic | Intensive treatment is initiated. Patients are kept under strict supervision and strong medication is prescribed. |
Dual Diagnosis | Patients suffering from multiple mental health disorders are recommended integrated treatment. Treatment for these co-existing conditions include residential treatment wherein medication and dedicated therapeutic care is offered. |
The final panic anxiety disorder treatment is decided based upon the conclusion drawn by therapists, psychiatrists and a physician.
Start Treatment
Begin your treatment plan with a confidential consultation with the best therapist. Feel free to call us, message us on WhatsApp or book an appointment online. You can even request for a treatment plan via mail.
However, treatment plans depend on the condition of the patient. Medication and therapy are always provided under the supervision of a licensed mental health professional.
Got Questions About Our Treatment Programs?
Find answers to common questions about our treatment programs, admission process, and what to expect during your recovery journey
Is there a panic disorder work treatment without medication?
Medication is prescribed after proper assessment of the symptoms. While mild cases may respond to therapy alone, therapists generally prescribe medication alongside psychotherapy in serious cases. Certain therapists offer individualised treatment plans to achieve a sustainable recovery outcome.
By what time is the improvement among patients noticeable?
Recovery is noticeable in the first 4–8 weeks. However, it also depends upon the consistency of the patients and severity of the disorder. However, different patients respond to medication differently. So a lot depends on the regularity of follow-ups and willingness to cooperate with the therapists.
What is the duration of the treatment for panic disorder?
The duration of treatment for panic disorder varies. A lot depends on the will of the patient. However, mild cases may take a few months to recover from. Patients suffering from severe panic disorder take longer, extending up to several years. Those who opt for relapse prevention take longer.
Is there any treatment plan available for full-time employees who cannot leave their jobs?
Online therapy sessions may be effective. However, an initial offline appointment for symptom analysis is highly recommended as face to face interaction is a must. Offline evening sessions are often arranged for consistency and medication management.
Experts Who Will Guide Your Recovery
Dr. Prashant Dasud
Designation: M.D. (Psychiatry)
Experience: 14+
Illnesses:
Depression & Mood Disorders, Anxiety Disorders, Bipolar Disorder, Schizophrenia & Psychotic Disorders, OCD, Drug & Alcohol Addiction, Sleep DisordersGeriatric Mental Health Issues
Dr. Santosh Pawar
Designation: M.D. (Radiodiagnosis)
Experience: 12+
Illnesses:
CT / MRI, Dementia & Memory Disorder, Neuro-radiological Evaluation, pine & Nerve Imaging,Head Injury & Neurological, Diagnostic Support for Mental Health
Dr. Neha Shetty
Designation: M.D. (Psychiatry)
Experience: 11+
Illnesses:
Depression, Anxiety Disorders, Bipolar Disorder, Schizophrenia & Psychosis, OCD, Drug Addiction,Mental Health Issues
