Panic refers to sudden, overwhelming fright or terror. it includes a group of unexpected physical symptoms of the fight/flight response that occur in the absence of any obvious threat or danger.
Description
Panic, in the psychology context, refers to a sudden and overwhelming sense of fear or anxiety that can be debilitating. It is often accompanied by physical symptoms such as shortness of breath, rapid heart rate, sweating, trembling, and feelings of unreality. Panic attacks can come on unexpectedly and may last anywhere from a few minutes to several hours. They can be triggered by specific situations or occur seemingly out of the blue. Panic is a common symptom of anxiety disorders such as panic disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, and social anxiety disorder.
Application Areas
- Therapy sessions for individuals experiencing panic attacks
- Research on the neurological basis of panic
- Development of new treatments for panic disorders
- Training programs for mental health professionals to help clients with panic symptoms
Treatment and Risks
- Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is often used to treat panic disorders
- Medications such as antidepressants and anti-anxiety drugs can help manage symptoms
- Risks of untreated panic may include social isolation, depression, and substance abuse
Examples
- A person with panic disorder having a panic attack while driving
- An individual experiencing panic symptoms before a job interview
- Someone with social anxiety having a panic attack at a party
Similar Concepts and Synonyms
- Anxiety attacks
- Overwhelming fear
- Terror
Summary
Panic in the psychology context refers to sudden and overwhelming fear or anxiety accompanied by physical symptoms. It is a common symptom of various anxiety disorders and can be triggered by specific situations or occur unexpectedly. Treatment options include therapy, medication, and lifestyle changes to manage symptoms and prevent further panic attacks. Untreated panic can lead to additional mental health issues such as social isolation and substance abuse.
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