Panic Disorder By Ruby westfall

Panic Disorder “A panic attack is an uncontrollable and terrifying response to ordinary, nonthreatening situations. People who experience recurrent panic attacks, have persistent anxiety or fear regarding their panic attacks and change their behavior in an attempt to avoid further panic attacks may have panic disorder.” -NAMI

Causes Stress Fear Genetics Increased risk if you have a severe medical illness, abuse drugs and a alcohol, and previous abuse.

Prevalence 2.7% of the adult population has panic disorder More common in females than males (2 to 1 ratio)

Signs & Symptoms Fast heart beat Chest pain Difficulty breathing Dizziness Panic attack

Effects Panic disorders can lead to agoraphobia Can lead to other mental health disorders

Most at Risk Women Starts typically when people are young adults Stressed out/overwhelmed people

Prevention & Treatment Therapy Anxiety medication and antidepressants Support from friends and family

Links http://www.mentalhealth.gov/what-to-look-for/anxiety- disorders/panic-disorder/index.html http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/panicdisorder.html http://www.nimh.nih.gov/statistics/1PANIC_ADULT.shtml http://www.nami.org/Content/NavigationMenu/Inform_Yourself/Ab out_Mental_Illness/By_Illness/Panic_Disorder.htm