Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is the first-line intervention for individuals with anxiety disorders. CBT focuses on techniques designed to target behaviors and thoughts of anxiety over time. CBT takes place in a structured environment with you and a professional. During this process, patients learn about dysfunctional thinking patterns, destructive behaviors, or distressing feelings.
Thankfully, cognitive behavioral therapy for panic attacks can be beneficial for people who suffer from anxiety disorders. Through CBT, strategies are put into place for people to recognize their heightened fear and anxiety. Individuals suffering from panic attacks can find relief with CBT.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Panic Attacks
CBT offers mindfulness-based interventions. Relieving stress can reduce panic attacks. Certain body sensations and physical symptoms may trigger a panic attack within an individual. Thankfully, the skills used in CBT can be beneficial during these moments. Remembering to breathe slowly and practice mindfulness allows a person to pause rather than spiral further into recurring negative or scary thoughts.
CBT can stop panic attacks with the help of a mental health professional. Learning CBT allows patients to learn when to practice mindfulness and other cognitive techniques. CBT exercises can help those suffering from panic attacks learn a new perspective. CBT usually takes place in weekly sessions with a patient and a psychologist. Thankfully, CBT is considered the first line of defense and offers plenty of benefits for patients, including reducing the frequency of panic attacks.
Panic Attack Symptoms
According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), there is a wide range of symptoms associated with a panic attack. Although symptoms can range in severity, some of the common symptoms of a panic attack include:
- Sweating
- Shortness of breath
- Heart palpitations
- Twitching
- Dizziness
- Chest pain
- Upset stomach
- Headaches
- Nausea
- Tension
- Insomnia
- Frequent urination
- Fatigue
- Tremors
- Diarrhea
- Irritability
- Excessive fear or worry
Panic attacks and anxiety can present themselves in unique ways. Although the symptoms above may be more prevalent, panic attacks can occur without warning, and symptoms can range in severity.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Anxiety Disorders
Those suffering from an anxiety disorder, which can lead to panic attacks, may be asked to participate in CBT. Individuals diagnosed with the following anxiety disorders can find CBT useful:
- Panic Disorder – Unexpected panic attacks accompanied by fear and worry can occur frequently with this disorder. Whether it be bodily sensations or unexpected thoughts, those with panic disorder can experience panic attacks more frequently than those with other anxiety disorders.
- Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) – GAD involves excessive worry about general life situations, such as health and finances. This excessive worry may result in panic attacks.
- Social Anxiety Disorder – Those with this disorder have high anxiety and fear of being perceived negatively in social situations, which can lead to panic attacks.
- Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) – This disorder presents itself with obsessions and compulsions, with individuals experiencing panic attacks when a compulsive ritual is not completed.
- Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) – Individuals may be diagnosed with PTSD after experiencing a traumatic event. Panic attacks can arise when a person has intrusive thoughts about the event or experiences the event in a dream.
Panic attacks may occur more frequently with these disorders, but can also be present during heightened times of stress or from an unexpected, usually negative experience. The symptoms of panic attacks may vary, but can ultimately be recognized by doctors who can provide treatment options, specifically CBT.
Discover Treatment for Panic Attacks
If you suffer from an anxiety disorder or you have experienced panic attacks recently, seemingly without any cause, consider finding treatment with CBT. At Cognitive Behavior Associates, our professionals provide a wide range of treatment options. However, CBT may be recommended for those experiencing panic attacks.
Contact us today to learn more about our cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) techniques. Explore treatment options that may help relieve panic attacks brought on by certain anxiety disorders.