Panic attack: symptoms, causes, and how psychotherapy can help.

A panic attack is an intense and often frightening experience. Anyone who has experienced one knows how much it can impact physical and emotional well-being. Often confused with other medical conditions, such as heart problems, a panic attack is one of the most prominent symptoms of panic disorder, a type of anxiety disorder. In this article, we will explore what characterizes a panic attack, its causes, symptoms, and, above all, how psychotherapy can offer relief and effective treatment for those suffering from this condition.

What is a panic attack?

A panic attack is an acute manifestation of anxiety, marked by intense fear that arises suddenly and without warning. It usually peaks within a few minutes and can last from 10 to 30 minutes. Although it is not life-threatening, the episode is often so intense that many believe they are having a heart attack or losing control.

Panic attacks can happen only once in a lifetime or recur frequently. When episodes become recurrent and the fear of having new attacks interferes with daily life, it is possible that the person is experiencing a panic disorder.

Symptoms of a panic attack

The physical and emotional symptoms of a panic attack vary from person to person, but generally include:

• Palpitations or rapid heartbeat
• Feeling short of breath or choking
• Dizziness or vertigo
• Tremors or chills
• Excessive sweating
• Nausea or abdominal discomfort
• Feeling of derealization (feeling disconnected from reality)
• Fear of dying, going crazy, or losing control.
• Tingling in the extremities (hands, feet, face)

These symptoms appear suddenly and intensely, leading many people to seek emergency care because they believe they are experiencing a serious health problem.

Causes of panic attacks

There is still no single proven cause for panic attacks. However, it is believed that a combination of biological, genetic, psychological, and environmental factors underlies this condition.

Among the main risk factors, the following stand out:

• Family history of anxiety disorders
• Chronic stress or traumatic events
• Significant life changes, such as the end of a relationship, job loss, or bereavement.
• Excessive use of stimulants such as caffeine, alcohol, or drugs.
• Associated mental health disorders, such as depression or generalized anxiety disorder.

It is important to point out that anyone can develop panic attacks, even those with no prior history of emotional problems.

Panic disorder: when attacks become frequent

Not every panic attack means a person has panic disorder. The diagnosis is made when episodes become recurrent and when there is a constant fear that new attacks will occur. This fear can be so intense that the person begins to avoid places or situations they associate with previous episodes, which can drastically limit their quality of life.

How can psychotherapy help?

Psychotherapy is one of the most effective treatments for panic attacks and panic disorder. Among the available therapeutic approaches, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is the most recommended and shows excellent results.

See how psychotherapy can help:

1. Understanding the origin of the symptoms

The first step in therapy is to help the patient understand that the symptoms are manifestations of anxiety and not signs of a serious physical illness. This awareness alleviates fear and the feeling of loss of control.

2. Identifying triggers

During the therapeutic process, the psychologist helps the patient identify triggers—that is, situations, thoughts, or feelings that precede attacks. With this awareness, it is possible to prevent new episodes.

3. Cognitive restructuring

CBT works by restructuring distorted thoughts that fuel anxiety. For example, if a person believes that a rapid heartbeat is a sign of imminent death, the therapy teaches them to reinterpret this symptom in a more realistic and healthy way.

4. Training in breathing and relaxation techniques.

Controlling your breathing during a seizure can be crucial to stopping it. Deep breathing techniques, mindfulness, and progressive muscle relaxation are taught in therapy sessions and can be practiced at home.

5. Gradual exposure

In some cases, therapy uses gradual exposure techniques to help the person face situations they fear. This is done safely and under supervision, reducing avoidance and increasing the patient’s confidence.

6. Emotional strengthening

In addition to addressing immediate symptoms, psychotherapy contributes to the development of emotional intelligence, self-awareness, and resilience. This makes the person better prepared to deal with the stress of daily life.

Other forms of treatment

Although psychotherapy is highly effective, in some cases it may be necessary to combine treatment with medication, such as anxiolytics or antidepressants, always under medical supervision. Regular physical activity, a balanced diet, and quality sleep are also important allies in combating anxiety.

When should you seek psychological help?

It is advisable to seek psychological help in the following cases:

• When panic attacks become frequent and intense
• When the fear of having another attack begins to interfere with daily life.
• When there is a feeling of isolation, social avoidance, or impairment in work and relationships.
• When symptoms persist for weeks or months.

Ignoring the signs or trying to cope alone can worsen the condition. Therefore, seeking a psychologist is an important step towards recovery and well-being.

Final considerations

Panic attacks are intense and frightening experiences, but with proper treatment it is possible to overcome them and regain quality of life. Psychotherapy, especially Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, offers practical and effective tools to manage symptoms, understand their causes, and prevent new episodes. If you or someone close to you has been experiencing this type of crisis, do not hesitate to seek a psychology professional.