Panic disorders

Frequency of panic attacks may vary considerably, with some individuals reporting brief clusters of several panic episodes in a short period of time, weekly panic attacks, or periodic attacks over the course of several months.

Higher risk among first-degree relatives; onset of attacks triggered by stress; often comorbid with other anxiety, mood, and substance-use disorders.

Assessment is made through ruling out organic causes; self-report; clinical interview; and behavioural observation.

Self-help, cognitive behavioural therapy, selective serotonin-reuptake inhibitors and serotonin-noradrenaline reuptake inhibitors are first-line treatments.

Long-term management includes relapse prevention after treatment discontinuation.

Panic disorder is characterised by recurring unexpected panic attacks over a 1-month period and associated worry about their recurrence or implications. Panic attacks involve the sudden onset of intense physical and cognitive symptoms of anxiety that may be triggered by specific cues or occur unexpectedly. Panic disorder may also be characterised by avoidance of situations that may trigger the panic sensations.