Don't Panic!...
Does this ever happen to you? Out
of nowhere, you experience a number of troubling physical symptoms. You
heart begins to pound or you have difficulty breathing. You might
experience chest pains or stomach upset. Perhaps you fear that you are
dying or about to go crazy. Symptoms like these are often indications of
a panic attack. Millions suffer from panic attacks and do even realize
what is happening to them.
The good news is that we know a lot
more about the physical and psychological mechanisms that cause panic
attacks, and we now have very effective treatments. According to research,
cognitive-behavioral therapy is now the most effective psychological
treatment for panic. This is a very practical, short-term therapy that
often leads to a complete elimination of panic symptoms. It can be used in
conjunction with appropriate medication.
I recently saw a woman who was so
completely paralyzed by fear that she rarely left her home. She would not
walk up her stairs for fear that the “strain” would cause a heart attack.
This was a very competent and successful woman who just happened to suffer
from panic attacks. Using the skills we taught her, she was able to regain
normal
functioning.
There is no need to suffer from panic attacks any longer.
If you have them, I urge you to consult with a mental health specialist who
uses the cognitive-behavioral approach.
Stanley E. Hibbs, Ph.D.
770-668-0350