😰 Panic disorder: what it is and how a psychologist can help

Imagine feeling your heart race, shortness of breath, and the sensation that something terrible is about to happen—even for no apparent reason.
These intense and sudden attacks of fear are part of panic disorder , an anxiety disorder that can profoundly impact the daily life and emotional well-being of those who suffer from it.

The good news is that there is effective treatment, and psychology plays an essential role in this process.
In this article, you will understand what panic disorder is , how it manifests itself , and how a psychologist can help you regain balance and emotional security.

💡 What is panic disorder?

Panic disorder is an anxiety disorder characterized by sudden attacks of intense fear , accompanied by physical and psychological symptoms.
During a panic attack, the person feels as if they are in imminent danger, even if nothing real is happening.

These crises can occur in isolation, but when they recur frequently and begin to cause fear of new crises, it is a sign that the disorder has taken hold.
According to psychology, this condition involves both biological and emotional factors , requiring a comprehensive therapeutic approach.

⚠️ Main symptoms of panic disorder

Symptoms usually appear abruptly and peak within minutes.
Among the most common are:

• Rapid heartbeat or palpitations;

• Shortness of breath or a feeling of suffocation;

• Excessive sweating and tremors;

• Dizziness and feeling faint;

• Pain or tightness in the chest;

• Nausea or abdominal discomfort;

• Chills or hot flashes;

• Intense fear of dying or going insane;

• Depersonalization (feeling of being outside the body).

These episodes are so intense that, often, the person believes they are having a heart attack or something serious, which further increases the panic.

🔄 How crises affect daily life

Over time, the person develops what is called “fear of fear” —a constant apprehension about having new attacks.
This can lead them to avoid places, activities, or situations they have associated with previous attacks, such as driving, using public transportation, or going out alone.

This avoidance behavior ends up restricting social and professional life, generating isolation, sadness, and even depressive symptoms.
That’s why psychotherapy is fundamental : it helps the patient understand the causes of panic and rebuild a sense of inner security.

🧠 Panic disorder and psychology: how treatment works

Psychology is one of the main tools in the treatment of panic disorder. The psychologist
helps the patient identify emotional triggers , control symptoms , and reprogram catastrophic thoughts that fuel fear.

The most commonly used approaches include:

1. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is widely recognized for its effectiveness in treating panic disorder.
It teaches patients to recognize the distorted thoughts that generate anxiety (“I’m going to die,” “I’m going to faint”) and replace them with more realistic ideas.
In addition, the psychologist guides relaxation and breathing techniques to cope with panic attacks.

2. Psychoeducation

The therapist explains what panic disorder is, how it works in the body, and why attacks occur.
With this knowledge, the patient stops seeing panic as something uncontrollable and learns to face it with more confidence.

3. Gradual exposure

In some cases, the psychologist uses controlled exposure techniques, helping the patient to gradually confront the situations they avoid.
This way, the brain learns that these situations do not represent a real danger.

4. Working with beliefs and self-confidence

Therapy also helps patients strengthen their self-esteem and cope with perfectionism, fear of making mistakes, and excessive control—common factors in those who suffer from panic attacks.

🌿 Strategies that help in everyday life

In addition to psychotherapy, some complementary practices can help reduce anxiety and prevent new crises:

• Practice mindful breathing and relaxation exercises;

• Maintain a proper sleep routine ;

• Avoid excessive caffeine and stimulants;

• Engage in regular physical activity;

• Cultivate moments of leisure and rest;

• Developing emotional self-awareness with the support of a psychologist.

These habits strengthen emotional balance and increase the feeling of control over one’s own body and mind.

💬 The role of the psychologist in treatment

The psychologist acts as an emotional guide , helping the patient understand what is behind the crises.
With empathy and specific techniques, the professional offers a safe space for the patient to express their fears and learn to deal with them in a healthier way.

Therapy not only reduces crises, but also helps the person regain confidence, resume activities, and rebuild emotional well-being .

In some cases, a psychologist may work in conjunction with a psychiatrist, especially when medication is needed to stabilize symptoms.

❤️ Final thoughts

Panic disorder can be frightening, but it is treatable and curable .
With the help of psychology , it’s possible to understand the causes, control the attacks, and rebuild emotional security.
Seeking professional help is an act of courage and the first step towards regaining balance, autonomy, and quality of life .