Panic Attack
When sudden waves of fear or discomfort strike without warning, it can feel overwhelming and frightening. At A1 Behavioral Health, we understand how panic attacks can disrupt daily life, and we’re here to help you find calm, confidence, and control again.
What Are Panic Attacks?
Panic attacks are intense episodes of fear or physical distress that can occur unexpectedly or be triggered by certain situations. During a panic attack, your body reacts as if it’s in danger, even when you’re safe, causing racing heartbeats, shortness of breath, and feelings of losing control.
While panic attacks can feel terrifying, they are treatable. At A1 Behavioral Health, we work with you to identify triggers, manage symptoms, and develop coping strategies through therapy, medication, and lifestyle changes. Our goal is to help you regain peace of mind and reduce the frequency and intensity of future episodes.
Signs and Symptoms of Panic Attacks
Panic attacks can happen suddenly and reach their peak within minutes. Recognizing the signs is an important first step toward managing them effectively.
Panic Attack Diagnostic Symptoms:
- Sudden and intense fear or sense of doom
- Rapid heartbeat or chest pain
- Shortness of breath or choking sensation
- Sweating, trembling, or shaking
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
- Chills or hot flashes
- Nausea or stomach discomfort
- Fear of losing control or “going crazy”
Common Symptoms of Panic Disorder:
- Recurrent, unexpected panic attacks
- Persistent worry about having another attack
- Avoiding places or situations for fear of triggering an episode
- Feeling detached or unreal (depersonalization/derealization)
- Fatigue or emotional exhaustion after an episode
- Difficulty concentrating or sleeping due to fear of recurrence
Understanding Panic Attacks
Panic attacks often develop when the brain’s “fight-or-flight” response becomes overactive. This can be influenced by stress, genetics, major life transitions, or certain health conditions. During an episode, the body releases a surge of stress hormones, like adrenaline, leading to physical sensations of fear. Although the experience feels dangerous, panic attacks themselves are not life-threatening. Our providers focus on helping you understand your body’s response, retrain your thought patterns, and build techniques to manage panic effectively over time.
Managing Panic Attacks
Effective Treatment Approaches:
Medication Management: SSRIs, anti-anxiety medications, or beta-blockers as appropriate
Psychotherapy: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Exposure Therapy for panic triggers
Lifestyle Modifications: Stress management, breathing techniques, regular exercise, and healthy sleep
Mind-Body Practices: Meditation, mindfulness, and grounding techniques to calm the nervous system
Support Systems: Peer support and counseling to help reduce isolation and build coping confidence
At A1 Behavioral Health, we take a personalized approach to treatment, combining therapy, medication, and education so you can regain control and live with confidence.
Get In Touch
Dr. Naiga Dohnji (DNP) is a dedicated provider, who embodies the mission and values of being a positive influence in patients’ lives, with a rich tapestry of professional experience.
- 972-656-8258
- info@a1behavioralhealth.com
- 13th Street 47 W 13th St, New York,