Stuff You Should Know SYSK Selects: How Panic Attacks Work
Aug 22, 2020
Dive into the perplexing world of panic attacks, where fear can strike without warning. Discover the physiological responses tied to the fight, flight, or freeze reactions. Learn about the complexities of panic disorder, its triggers, and the emotional toll it can take. Unpack effective treatment options, including medication and therapy, while understanding the importance of open conversations regarding mental health. Personal anecdotes and science come together to offer hope and practical advice for those affected by anxiety challenges.
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Individualized Panic
- Panic attacks are very individualized and involve intense, seemingly unreasonable fear.
- Panic disorder, a more serious condition, arises from recurring panic attacks and the subsequent fear of them.
Panic Attacks vs. Disorder
- One can experience isolated panic attacks without having panic disorder.
- The exact cause and predictability of panic attacks remain largely unknown.
The Flight Response
- A panic attack triggers the fight-or-flight response, often manifesting as an urge to flee.
- Unlike typical fear responses, the parasympathetic nervous system doesn't calm the person down.