Panic Disorder Can Follow A Panic Attack

Although Panic Disorder can follow a panic attack, it is not necessarily the rule. Some can have one or even a few panic attacks and move on without much difficulty. However, without awareness of strategies to combat them, panic attacks can develop into what is known as Panic Disorder.

Panic Disorder is defined by at least a month of recurring unexpected panic attacks with a fear of having more, tendency to avoid situations or experiences where panic attacks have occurred leading to a lack of freedom, and an extreme concern about what the panic attacks might imply or result in (ex. loss of control, sanity, death).

Panic Disorder can be experienced with or without Agoraphobia.

But don't get discouraged! Panic attacks and Panic Disorder are highly treatable!

Follow this link for info on seeking help for Panic Attacks

Anxiety Disorders: How Common Are They?

Are anxiety disorders really that common?

Well, take a look at some U.S. statistics from the National Institute of Mental Health:

*In any given year, about 40 million Americans over the age of 18 has an anxiety disorder such as panic disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), post-traumatic stress disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, and phobias (social phobia, agoraphobia, and specific phobia).

*In any given year, about 6 million Americans over the age of 18 has Panic Disorder.

*About 1 in 3 who has Panic Disorder develops Agoraphobia. About 1.8 million Americans in any given year over the age of 18 has Agoraphobia without a history of Panic Disorder.

*In any given year, about 2.2 million Americans over the age of 18 has Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD).

*In any given year, about 15 million Americans over the age of 18 has Social Phobia.

* In any given year, about 19 million Americans over the age of 18 has a Specific Phobia.

Click on the link below for more statistics from NIMH:

www.nimh.nih.gov/health/publications/the-numbers-count-mental-disorders-in-america/index.shtml#Anxiety

If you struggle with anxiety, clearly you're not alone. So, the next time you feel any shame, just remind yourself that this is the most common mental health issue in this country. And then decide to get some help. Why continue to suffer when anxiety disorders can be treated so effectively?

Follow this link for more on treating anxiety disorders