We are accepting Telehealth and in-person appointments. Schedule a virtual visit.
Skip to main content

Panic Attacks

Boston Neurobehavioral Associates

Psychiatry & Psychotherapist located in New Bedford, MA & Brockton, MA

A panic attack is a sudden episode of intense fear or panic accompanied by physical symptoms like heart palpitations and shortness of breath.

Panic Attacks FAQ's

What causes panic attacks?

Panic attacks can be caused by a variety of factors, including genetics, environmental stressors, and underlying mental health conditions such as anxiety disorders.

 

How can I tell if I'm having a panic attack?

Symptoms of a panic attack may include rapid heartbeat, sweating, trembling, shortness of breath, chest pain, nausea, dizziness, and a sense of unreality or fear of losing control or dying.

 

What should I do if I'm having a panic attack?

It's important to stay calm and remind yourself that the panic attack will pass. Try deep breathing exercises, visualization, or other relaxation techniques to help manage symptoms. If symptoms persist or become severe, seek medical attention.

 

How are panic attacks treated?

Treatment for panic attacks may involve therapy, medication, or a combination of both. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and medication such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are commonly used.

 

Can panic attacks be prevented?

While it may not be possible to completely prevent panic attacks, managing stress and anxiety, getting enough sleep, eating a healthy diet, and exercising regularly may help reduce the frequency and severity of panic attacks.

 

Are panic attacks dangerous?

Panic attacks themselves are not physically dangerous, but they can be very frightening and may cause physical symptoms that can be mistaken for a heart attack or other medical emergency. It's important to seek medical attention if you are unsure about your symptoms.

anxiety

Anxiety

A mental health condition characterized by excessive fear or worry about future events or situations.

View Condition
bipolar

Bipolar Disorder

A mental health condition characterized by extreme mood swings, including episodes of depression and mania.

View Condition
depression

Depression

A mood disorder characterized by feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and loss of interest in activities that were once enjoyed.

View Condition
ocd

OCD

A mental health condition characterized by intrusive, obsessive thoughts and compulsive behaviors performed in an attempt to reduce anxiety.

View Condition
adhd

ADHD

A neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by difficulty with inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity that affects daily life.

View Condition
ptsd

PSTD

A mental health condition characterized by flashbacks, nightmares, and anxiety after experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event.

View Condition
sleep disorder

Sleep Disorder

Sleep Disorder refers to disruptions in sleep patterns, causing difficulties in falling asleep, staying asleep, or experiencing restful sleep.

View Condition
phobias

Phobias

Phobias are persistent and irrational fears of specific objects or situations, leading to avoidance and anxiety.

View Condition
adjustment disorder

Adjustment Disorder

Adjustment disorder is a stress-related mental health condition that causes emotional and behavioral symptoms in response to a life event or change.

View Condition
agarophobia

Agoraphobia

Agoraphobia is an anxiety disorder characterized by a fear of situations or places that may be difficult to escape from or receive help during intense anxiety or panic attacks.

View Condition
anorexia

Anorexia

Anorexia is an eating disorder in which individuals engage in self-imposed starvation, have an intense fear of weight gain, and experience a distorted body image.

View Condition
bulimia

Bulimia

Eating disorder where individuals engage in episodes of binge-eating followed by compensatory behaviors like vomiting or excessive exercise to prevent weight gain.

View Condition
social anxiety

Social Anxiety

An intense fear of social situations leads to avoidance due to the fear of negative evaluation or embarrassment.

View Condition
panic-attacks

Panic Attack

A panic attack is a sudden episode of intense fear or panic accompanied by physical symptoms like heart palpitations and shortness of breath.

View Condition
personality disorder

Personality Disorder

Personality Disorder refers to persistent patterns of maladaptive thoughts, emotions, and behaviors that affect interpersonal relationships.

View Condition
schizophrenia

Schizophrenia

Schizophrenia is a chronic mental disorder characterized by distorted thoughts, perceptions, emotions, and impaired social functioning.

View Condition
separation anxiety

Separation Anxiety

A condition which is marked with excessive anxiety experienced when separated from attachment figures, commonly observed in children but can persist into adulthood.

View Condition
cognitive disorders

Cognitive Disorders

Cognitive Disorders are conditions that impact cognitive function, including memory, thinking, perception, and can include disorders such as dementia or cognitive impairment.

View Condition