Panic Disorder
Panic attacks are terrifying—but they're treatable. Stop living in fear of the next attack. We provide fast relief and long-term solutions.
What is a Panic Attack?
A panic attack is a sudden surge of intense fear that peaks within minutes. Your body triggers a "fight or flight" response even when there's no real danger. The physical symptoms can be so severe that many people think they're having a heart attack.
Panic disorder develops when you have recurrent panic attacks and live in fear of the next one. This fear can become so consuming that it limits where you go and what you do.
Panic Attack Symptoms
Signs of Panic Disorder
It's panic disorder (not just occasional attacks) when you experience:
- Recurrent, unexpected panic attacks
- Persistent worry about having another attack
- Changing behavior to avoid attacks (avoiding places, activities)
- Fear of being in situations where escape might be difficult
- Avoiding leaving home (agoraphobia in severe cases)
- Panic attacks that seem to come 'out of nowhere'
6 Million
Americans have panic disorder
Women are twice as likely to be affected
"Am I Having a Heart Attack?"
Panic attacks can feel like heart attacks—chest pain, racing heart, shortness of breath. Many people go to the ER convinced they're dying, only to be told it's "just anxiety."
But panic attacks are not "just" anything. They're terrifying and debilitating. The good news: panic disorder is one of the most treatable anxiety disorders. Most people experience significant improvement with proper medication and therapy.
Important: If you're having chest pain for the first time, always seek medical evaluation to rule out cardiac causes. Once heart problems are ruled out, we can help you address panic disorder.
Panic Disorder Treatment at Next Step
We provide both immediate relief and long-term solutions to break the cycle of panic
SSRIs/SNRIs for Prevention
Medications like Lexapro, Zoloft, and Effexor help prevent panic attacks from occurring by regulating brain chemistry.
Fast-Acting Relief
For acute attacks, short-term benzodiazepines can provide rapid relief while long-term medications take effect.
Beta Blockers
Help control physical symptoms like racing heart and trembling, especially useful for situational panic.
CBT Coordination
We coordinate with therapists providing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, which is highly effective for panic disorder.
Our Balanced Approach to Medication
While fast-acting medications can provide immediate relief during the acute phase, our goal is to help you manage panic without depending on them long-term. We carefully transition patients to preventive SSRIs/SNRIs that stop panic attacks from occurring in the first place. Many patients eventually need no medication at all once they've learned to manage panic with therapy and lifestyle changes.
Why Choose Next Step Psychiatry?
Same-Day Appointments
When panic is overwhelming, you need help fast. We offer same-day appointments for urgent situations.
We Understand Panic
We know how frightening panic attacks are. You'll receive empathetic care from providers who take your symptoms seriously.
Telepsychiatry Option
If leaving home triggers panic, start treatment from the safety of your own space via video appointment.
Stop Living in Fear of the Next Attack
Panic disorder is highly treatable. You don't have to let fear control where you go and what you do. Take the first step toward freedom today.