Signs That A Panic Disorder May Be Affecting Your Life

13 September 2017
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Suffering from a panic disorder has the ability to greatly disrupt your life. While some people around you might not understand what you're going through, you could be highly concerned about passing out, especially in a setting in which people are present. A panic disorder isn't something that you should ignore and hope that it will go away. Instead, you should contact a mental health professional in your area who specializes in treating patients with various forms of anxiety. Are you not sure whether your condition is serious enough to warrant medical care? Here are some signs that you need help.

You Can't Catch Your Breath

Everyone experiences varying degrees of anxiety that they might occasionally refer to as "panic." However, when you have an actual panic disorder, you'll often struggle to catch your breath. You may notice this issue taking place when you're in stressful situations, such as getting ready to make a presentation at work or even talking to family members with whom you have a rocky relationship. When you can't catch your breath, you'll feel your heart racing and you'll struggle to breathe. Sometimes, you may need to sit down or steady yourself by holding onto a wall or piece of furniture.

You've Actually Passed Out

Many people who suffer from panic disorders struggle to catch their breath in stressful situations, but others have actually passed out with a panic attack. Panic attacks are highly dangerous for multiple reasons. When you fall, you could easily hit your head or break a bone. Additionally, passing out from a panic attack in different environments can be especially hazardous, such as when you're driving your vehicle. Reaching the point at which you've actually passed out, if even for a few seconds, is a sign that you need to get help from a mental health professional.

You're Becoming Reclusive

For some people with panic disorders, going into new and unfamiliar environments can be stressful. Fear of the unknown may trigger the start of a panic attack, and even thinking how the environment might be stressful for you can lead to the same result. You may attempt to cope with this concern by staying at home or sticking to otherwise familiar environments. This can lead you to lose friendships with friends and compromise your overall social life. Instead of allowing your panic disorder to get the better of you, it's time to see a mental health professional who specializes in anxiety therapy.