Could It Be Panic Disorder?
Have you ever found yourself worrying about your health, feeling heart palpitations, experiencing difficulty breathing, or feeling "spacey" or lightheaded? If so, you might have spent a lot of time Googling various medical conditions, convinced something serious could be wrong with you. But what if I told you that these could be symptoms of something much more common and treatable: panic disorder?
It's More Common Than You Think
Many people experience these unsettling symptoms and immediately worry about heart problems, breathing issues, or other severe health conditions. It’s completely understandable—these sensations are intense and can be very scary. However, what many people don't realize is that these symptoms are often linked to panic disorder, a type of anxiety disorder that can mimic physical health problems.
Understanding Panic Disorder
Panic disorder involves sudden and repeated attacks of fear, often accompanied by physical symptoms like:
Heart palpitations
Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
Feeling lightheaded or "spacey"
Sweating
Chest pain
Nausea
Dizziness
Tingling sensations
These symptoms can feel overwhelming and may lead you to think something terrible is about to happen. But in reality, they are often signs of a panic attack, a common experience for those with panic disorder.
The Trap of Endless Googling
When these symptoms strike, it's natural to turn to the internet for answers. You might find yourself falling down a rabbit hole, reading about various heart or lung conditions, and feeling even more anxious. This cycle of symptom-searching and increased worry can make the problem worse, not better.
The Good News: Treatment Is Straightforward
The reassuring news is that panic disorder is highly treatable. With the right approach, you can manage and even overcome these symptoms. Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) is one of the most effective treatments, helping you to understand the connection between your thoughts, feelings, and physical sensations, and teaching you ways to break the cycle of panic.
You Are Not Alone
It's important to know that you're not alone in this experience. Many people live with panic disorder, and many have found relief through therapy and, in some cases, medication. You don’t need to spend endless hours worrying or researching what could be wrong. Instead, reaching out to a mental health professional can set you on the path to understanding and managing your symptoms.
Take the First Step
If you've been experiencing these symptoms and find yourself stuck in a cycle of worry, consider reaching out for help. Clinical Psychologists (like myself) often love treating panic disorder because of how effective treatment can be! If you have been to your GP and a medical explanation for these symptoms hasn’t been found, consider asking for a referral to be assessed by a clinical psychologist. I offer treatment for Panic Disorder in Sydney CBD and by telehealth.
