Panic Attacks

Panic attacks are brief episodes of extreme fear. They are often mistaken for a physical problem but are usually psychological. Panic attacks can occur suddenly and usually peak within ten minutes. Most panic attacks end within 20 to 30 minutes.

Some symptoms include:

• Rapid Heartbeat or Palpitations
• Sweating
• Trembling
• Feelings of suffocation
• Nausea
• Feeling detached from reality
• Fear of “going crazy”

Sometimes panic attacks are isolated incidents, but if they’re recurring they often cause fear of having them in the future. People then may develop phobias related to something they associate with panic attacks, including open spaces, large crowds, and enclosed spaces such as subway trains or elevators.

CBT, Exposure Response Prevention (ERP) and Acceptance and Commitment therapy (ACT) are very effective for panic attacks and related phobias. When you come to BHNY we’ll collaborate with you utilizing these methods and any others relevant to treat your panic attacks.