People who suffer with Panic Disorder may experience panic attacks or recurrent panic attacks; some of which may have no triggers or unexpected; it may continue for months of either worry about the future attacks/consequences or a significant change in behavior related to the attacks such as precipitating circumstances. A person with panic disorder may become discouraged and feel ashamed because he or she cannot carry out normal routines like going to school or work, going to the grocery store, or driving. Panic disorder often begins in the late teens or early adulthood. More women than men have panic disorder.
Signs and Symptoms
- Spontaneous discrete episodes of intense fear that begin abruptly and last for several minutes to hours
- Recurrent panic attacks
- Chest pain and shortness of breath
- Agoraphobia- anxiety about certain situations
- History of Suicidal Ideation or Homicidal Ideation
- Panic Attack