Share WhatsApp
BOOK NOW

Panic Attacks & Panic Disorder

Updated: July 23, 2022

Panic attacks are relatively common in the UK, and more prevalent in women. It is estimated that 1 in 10 people will have at least one panic attack in their lifetime, with 2-3% of the UK population impacted by panic disorder, which entails recurring and unexpected panic attacks.

Get Help With This

What Is Panic?

Panic relates to an intense discomfort or fear that comes on suddenly. A panic attack is when this fear is accompanied by physical symptoms, which vary between people. Some typical symptoms include increased heart rate, sweating, and rapid and shallow breathing. Panic attacks can peak within minutes and happen unexpectedly, or are triggered by specific situations.

 

Panic disorder is a mental health condition and one of the anxiety disorders.  Those affected experience a sudden onset of panic symptoms which recur. Due to the fear and distress associated with having an attack, people who experience the condition tend to worry about having another attack. This means they may avoid certain situations because they believe it will trigger an attack. This kind of avoidance can impact daily life, relationships, and life quality.

What Are The Symptoms?

Typical Panic Symptoms Include:

  1. Discomfort or pain in the chest
  2. Palpitations (rapid heartbeat)
  3. Feeling short of breath, or as if you’re choking
  4. Cold chills or sweating
  5. Shaking or trembling
  6. Light headedness or dizziness
  7. Nausea or abdominal problems
  8. Fear of losing control or that you’re going crazy
  9. Feeling detached from oneself or reality
  10. Fear of dying

What Causes Panic Disorder?

As with most mental health conditions, there is no known direct cause for the development of panic disorder. Research suggests a combination of genetic, environmental, and psychological factors. For example:

 

  1. Genetic inheritance: Panic disorder can run in families, suggesting a genetic predisposition to the condition.
  2. Brain chemistry: Abnormalities in brain chemicals like norepinephrine and serotonin may contribute to the development of panic disorder.
  3. Environmental factors: Stress, trauma, and major life transitions, such as bereavement or the loss of a job can sometimes trigger panic attacks in people.
  4. Cognitive factors: Certain thinking styles, such catastrophising or misinterpreting body sensations as harmful can increase the likelihood of developing panic disorder.
  5. Substance misuse: Drugs, including alcohol might trigger, or exacerbate panic symptoms in some people.

How Phinity Therapy Can Help

Even though panic attacks or panic disorder can be challenging to live with, they are treatable. At Phinity, we will start my conducting a holistic psychological assessment towards development of a suitable treatment plan. This can result in the option of various psychological treatments that have proven effective for panic disorder. These include:

 

  1. Cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT): CBT is an evidence based therapy which helps people identify, manage, and change negative thought patterns and behaviours that impact panic attacks. This may involve learning about your triggers, relaxation techniques, and facing feared situations in a managed and paced way.
  2. Exposure therapy: Exposure therapy is a type of CBT that involves gradually exposing an individual to the situations or objects that they fear. This can help desensitize them to these triggers and reduce the likelihood of panic attacks.
  3. Mindfulness-based interventions: Mindfulness-based interventions, such as mindfulness meditation or yoga, can help individuals learn to be more present in the moment and reduce stress and anxiety.
  4. Psychodynamic therapy: Psychodynamic therapy can help individuals explore the underlying emotional and psychological factors that may contribute to panic attacks and develop strategies for managing these feelings.
  5. Acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT): ACT aims to reduce stress and anxiety by helping individuals learn to manage and accept their thoughts and feelings instead of trying to avoid or control them. This can improve overall mental health.
What Causes Panic Disorder?How Phinity Therapy Can Help

Frame-31357.8d559ee9904a4427c4814653442675d9.

Clients' Common Questions

See What Our Clients Say

Brian
6 days ago
I can honestly say Phinity Therapy has been a really positive part of my journey. From the beginning, they made the process feel easy and welcoming, which helped a lot when I was feeling unsure about starting therapy. The team genuinely cares — you’re not just another appointment on the calendar. They took the time to understand what I needed and matched me with someone who was a great fit. The sessions feel personal, not clinical, and the support is consistent and sincere. They offer a wide range of services, but more importantly, they create a space where you feel safe, heard, and supported. I'm really grateful I found them.
Read More
Verified
Brian
1 week ago
Phinity Therapy has been a truly supportive space in my mental health journey. The therapist really took the time to understand me, and each session felt tailored to my needs. I’ve gained clarity, tools to cope, and a renewed sense of confidence.
Read More
Verified
Sam
2 weeks ago
Phinity Therapy’s services genuinely made a difference for me. I loved how flexible they were—offering both online and in-person sessions—and everything felt really tailored to what I needed. The whole process felt supportive and easy to follow, and I walked away with tools that actually helped in real life.
Read More
Verified
Samuel
1 month ago
Phinity Therapy has been incredible. Their team made me feel understood and supported from day one. The personalised approach helped me manage anxiety and improve my well-being. Every session felt safe, welcoming, and impactful. Highly recommended for anyone seeking genuine, effective mental health support.
Read More
Verified
Chanel
1 month ago
I had a genuinely uplifting experience with Phinity Therapy. From the moment I connected with their friendly team in the UK, I felt supported and understood. Their warm, compassionate approach combined with personalized, evidence-based treatments truly helped me manage anxiety and boost my emotional well-being. Each session felt like a safe space where I could work through challenges at my own pace. If you’re looking for quality mental health care, holistic therapy, and expert guidance, I highly recommend Phinity Therapy for anyone seeking a transformative and caring mental health journey.
Read More
Verified
Gracie K
8 months ago
Thank you Phinity!
Read More
Verified
Llyod D
8 months ago
Therapy with Rehanna has been nothing short of life-changing. From the very first session, I felt comfortable opening up about things I’ve never shared with anyone. The insights I gained and the coping mechanisms I learned have made a profound difference in how I navigate my day-to-day life. This experience has given me a new perspective on my challenges, and I’m incredibly grateful for the compassionate and skilled guidance I received
Read More
Verified
Oscar
8 months ago
I cannot express enough how much my therapy sessions have positively impacted my life. My therapist created a safe, non-judgmental space where I felt truly heard and understood. Over time, I’ve learned tools and strategies that have not only helped me manage my anxiety but have also empowered me to take control of my life. It was a transformative experience, and I highly recommend it to anyone considering therapy!
Read More
Verified
Brody
10 months ago
Highly skilled in getting to the root of the problem
Read More
Verified
Butler
10 months ago
Skilled and compassionate
Read More
Verified
Book Your Free Consultation
Today