The terms “anxiety” and “panic” may be used interchangeably in conversation, but mental health professionals use them to describe distinct experiences. Someone with anxiety may or may not experience panic attacks, and panic attacks can be experienced with a number of conditions including, anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and substance use disorder.
When panic attacks become recurring and lead to persistent fear or avoidance, a person may be experiencing panic disorder. Sometimes, agoraphobia can develop alongside panic disorder, leading individuals to avoid situations where they feel escape is difficult or help may not be available. In this blog, we will explore the symptoms, causes, and therapy as a treatment option for both panic disorder and agoraphobia.
What is panic disorder?
Panic disorder is a mental health condition marked by recurring, unexpected episodes of intense fear or discomfort, known as panic attacks. Panic attacks often peak within minutes and can feel overwhelming, both physically and emotionally.
To meet the criteria for panic disorder, panic attacks typically include at least four of the following symptoms:
- Rapid or pounding heartbeat
- Sweating or trembling
- Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
- Feelings of choking
- Chest pain or discomfort
- Nausea or abdominal distress
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
- Chills or heat sensations
- Numbness or tingling sensations
- Feelings of unreality or detachment from oneself
- Fear of losing control or “going crazy”
- Fear of dying
Because panic attacks are so intense, many people who experience them begin to worry about when the next one will happen. This may lead to avoiding situations where they fear an attack could occur. When this fear or avoidance persists for at least a month, it may indicate a panic disorder.
Causes of panic disorder
The causes of panic disorder can vary from person to person, but research suggests that both biological and environmental factors play a role. Common contributing factors include:
- Genetics: A family history of panic disorder or panic attacks can increase the risk.
- Stressful life events: Major life changes, trauma, or chronic stress may trigger panic symptoms.
- Temperament: Individuals who are more sensitive to stress may be more vulnerable.
- Brain chemistry: Imbalances in neurotransmitters like serotonin, norepinephrine, dopamine, and gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) can influence panic responses.
What is agoraphobia?
Agoraphobia is an anxiety disorder characterized by an intense fear of being in places or situations where escape may be difficult or where help may not be available. This fear can lead individuals to avoid public places, crowds, or even leaving home altogether, causing significant disruptions in daily life.
Common agoraphobia symptoms may include fear or avoidance of:
- Theaters, malls, or crowded settings
- Standing in lines or using public transportation
- Driving or parking lots
- Being in wide open spaces or confined areas
- Leaving home alone
Some people with agoraphobia recognize that their fear is excessive, yet they still feel unable to control it. This can lead to distress and isolation.
It is important to note that an individual may have agoraphobia without panic attacks.
Causes of agoraphobia
The causes of agoraphobia are often complex and intertwined with experiences of panic or anxiety. Common risk factors include:
- A history of panic attacks or panic disorder
- Traumatic experiences or stressful events
- Overprotective or anxious parenting styles
- Learned avoidance behaviors that were reinforced over time
- Coexisting mental health conditions, such as depression or generalized anxiety disorder
How are agoraphobia and panic disorder related?
Panic disorder and agoraphobia are closely connected. In fact, many people with panic disorder develop agoraphobia after experiencing repeated panic attacks in certain settings. The brain begins to associate specific environments with the onset of panic, leading to avoidance behaviors.
Over time, this avoidance can become more generalized. It can extend to multiple places or activities, creating a cycle of fear and restriction.
Can you have both agoraphobia and panic disorder?
Yes. Approximately a third of people who have panic disorder develop agoraphobia. In these cases, a person may fear experiencing a panic attack somewhere they feel trapped or helpless.
The combination of panic disorder and agoraphobia can be distressing, but both can be supported with the right therapeutic support.
Therapy for panic disorder and agoraphobia
Psychotherapy is one of the most effective treatment options for both panic disorder and agoraphobia. Working with a licensed therapist can help you understand your symptoms, reduce avoidance behaviors, and build confidence in managing anxiety. Common therapeutic approaches include:
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): Helps identify and reframe anxious thoughts while gradually facing feared situations.
- Exposure Therapy: Involves safely confronting the physical sensations or environments associated with panic attacks and fear.
- Mindfulness and relaxation techniques: Teach ways to stay grounded and reduce physiological stress responses.
Whether you’re seeking therapy for panic disorder, panic attacks, or agoraphobia, therapy can help you regain a sense of safety, independence, and control over your life.
Takeaway
Panic disorder and agoraphobia are serious conditions that can take a major toll on the sufferer, both mentally and physically. Understanding the symptoms, causes, and connections between them can be a first step toward healing.
With the right support, it’s possible to reduce fear, regain confidence, and rebuild your sense of safety. If you’re ready to take the first step, choose a therapist at findmytherapist.com.