What we treat

A panic attack is a sudden episode of intense fear that triggers severe physical reactions when there is no real danger or apparent cause.

When a panic attack occurs, you might think you're losing control, having a heart attack or even dying.

If you've had recurrent, unexpected panic attacks and spent long periods in constant fear of another attack, you may have a condition called panic disorder.

Although panic attacks themselves aren't life-threatening, they can be frightening and significantly affect your quality of life.

Most people with panic disorder who receive therapy finish feeling better and more able to manage their symptoms.

Signs & Symptoms

Panic attacks typically begin suddenly, without warning. You might notice that particular places, situations or activities seem to trigger panic attacks.

Panic attacks have many variations, but symptoms usually peak within minutes. You may feel fatigued and worn out after a panic attack subsides.

Signs and symptoms of a panic attack may include:

• Sense of impending doom or danger

• Fear of loss of control or death

• Rapid, pounding heart rate

• Sweating

• Trembling or shaking

• Shortness of breath or tightness in your throat

• Chills

• Hot flushes

• Nausea

• Abdominal cramping

• Chest pain

• Headache

• Dizziness, light-headedness or faintness

• Numbness or tingling sensation

• Feeling of unreality or detachment

One of the worst things about panic attacks is the intense fear that you'll have another one. You may fear having panic attacks so much that you avoid certain situations where they may occur.

These symptoms may cause difficulties in day-to-day activities such as work, studying, social activities or relationships with others.

Other struggles

Read more about the other difficulties we treat:

Stress

Depression

Worrying lots about different things

Illness anxiety

Flashbacks or nightmares of a trauma

Obsessive thoughts, compulsive behaviours

Social anxiety

Specific phobias

Perceived flaws in appearance

Loss or bereavement

Expressing anger

Problems in relationships

Talking therapy

If you could be struggling with panic disorder, read about the talking therapies we offer to see how they could help you. You may also like to read some feedback and encouragements by those who received therapy with us.

Self-help resources

Be sure to check out our useful section of self-help resources for wellbeing.

Employment advice

Alongside therapy our Employment Team can help you find employment or training, and support you with workplace adjustments or disputes.