Panic attacks can feel frightening because the physical sensations are so intense. A racing heart, dizziness, shortness of breath, trembling, or a feeling that something terrible is about to happen can quickly lead to fear of the sensations themselves. Over time, you may begin avoiding places, activities, or situations because you're worried another panic attack might happen.

My approach to treating panic focuses on changing how you respond to the sensations rather than trying to immediately stop, control, or escape them. We work on recognizing the body's alarm response for what it is, allowing the uncomfortable sensations to be there, and learning that you don't have to fight them. Instead of “I need to make this stop,” the response becomes, “I don't like this feeling, but I can handle it.”

Treatment may also include intentionally practicing feared physical sensations in a safe, controlled way. As your brain learns that these sensations are uncomfortable but not something you need to fear or escape, the fear of panic can begin to decrease. Over time, panic attacks may become less frequent, less intense, and much less frightening. You can begin doing things you've been avoiding and stop organizing your life around the possibility of another panic attack. The goal isn't to never feel anxious again—it's to reach the point where anxiety and panic no longer have the same power over you.