Panic Disorder - Generalized Anxiety Disorder

Brett Clark, Rick Reynolds, Ashley Hicks

EXPLANATION

A panic attack is a sudden surge of overwhelming fear that comes without warning and without obvious reason. it is far more intense then the feeling of being stressed out that most people experience

SYMPTOMS

Racing heartbeat, difficulty breathing, feeling as though you cant get enough air, terror that is almost paralyzing, dizziness, lightheadedness, or nausea, trembling, shaking, choking, chest pain, hot flashes, sudden chills, tingling in fingers or toes, fear that you are going crazy or going to die

occurs suddenly without anyway to stop it, the level of fear is a way of proportion to the actual situation

DIAGNOSIS

a physical examination and medical and personal history is essential.

it is extremely important for the doctor to uncover any medical problems or medications that might underlie or be masked by an anxiety attack.

DIAGNOSIS Cont.

Diagnosing children with an anxiety disorder can be very difficult since anxiety often results in disruptive behaviors that overlap with ADD or oppositional disorder.

symptoms similar to anxiety disorders include asperger syndrome, learning disabilities, bipolar disorder, and depression.

Many children have anxiety disorders and a co-occurring condition which should be treated along with anxiety.

THOSE AFFECTED

one out of 75 may experience this, occurs during teens or early adulthood.

There does seem to be a connection between major life transitions such as college, getting married, having children, etc.

Increased risk if inherited.

CAUSES

A persons genetics, biochemistry, environment, history, and psychological profile can all contribute to the development of the anxiety disorders.

most people with these disorders seem to have a biological vulnerability to stress, making them more susceptible to environmental stimuli then the rest of the population.

TREATMENT

Anxiety disorders require treatment. simply trying to talk to oneself out of a heart or stomach problem. most anxiety disorders especially phobias respond well to treatment. They may however require long term treatment. Many Patients have a recurrence and may require additional

medications. Most patients do not receive appropriate care for anxiety disorders.

Many patients do not receive any treatment at all. Some treatment options are antidepressants, benzodiazepines maybe

recommended for patients who are not helped by depressants. A healthy lifestyle that includes exercise, adequate rest and good

nutrition can help to reduce the impact of anxiety.

GETTING HELP

Cerio Counseling Services100 N. Main St, Elmira, NY 14901p: (607) 737 4040http://www.hotfrog.com/Companies/Cerio-Counseling-Services

Family Services of Chemung County, Inc.1019 East Water Street • Elmira, NY 14901p:(607) 733-5696 http://familyservicesofchemung.com/mental_health_intensive_outpatient_2.nxg

RELATED/INTERESTING INFORMATION

Up to 20% of anxious people who suffer attempt suicide

Caffeine, cold and flu medications, anti-malarial drugs, appetite suppressants, and local anesthetics may trigger panic attacks.http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FOduf2WXPzo