Panic Disorder and Anxiety in Teens

Panic Disorder and Anxiety in Teens Panic Disorder Diagnosis Print Panic Disorder and Anxiety in Teens By Katharina Star, PhD facebook linkedin Katharina Star, PhD, is an expert on anxiety and panic disorder. Dr. Star is a professional counselor, and she is trained in creative art therapies and mindfulness. Learn about our editorial policy Katharina Star, PhD Medically reviewed by Medically reviewed by Steven Gans, MD on August 05, 2016 Steven Gans, MD is board-certified in psychiatry and is an active supervisor, teacher, and mentor at Massachusetts General Hospital. Learn about our Medical Review Board Steven Gans, MD Updated on September 10, 2019 Commercial Eye/Getty Images More in Panic Disorder Diagnosis Symptoms Treatment Coping Related Conditions Panic disorder is an anxiety disorder that typically onsets in late adolescence or early adulthood. Although panic disorder often begins between the ages of 15 and 35, its still possible to develop this condition in childhood or early adolescence. Panic Disorder and Teens The symptoms of panic disorder in teenagers are very similar to the experiences of adult sufferers. The main symptom of panic disorder is the experience of recurrent panic attacks. These attacks often occur unexpectedly and are marked by extreme fear, nervousness, and apprehension. Panic attacks are usually felt through a mix of physical, mental, and emotional symptoms. These attacks typically occur out-of-the-blue and are accompanied by four or more of the following symptoms: Accelerated heart rateExcessive sweatingTrembling or shakingShortness of breathFeeling of chokingChest painNausea or abdominal painFeeling dizzy, unsteady, lightheaded, or faintDerealization or depersonalizationFear of losing control or going crazyFear of dyingFeelings of numbness or tingling sensationsChills or hot flushes Panic attacks can vary in terms of symptoms, intensity, and duration. Most last for only a brief period of time, reaching a peak within 10 minutes. But a panic attack can continue to affect a teenager long after it has ended, causing heightened nervousness and anxiety hours after the attack has subsided. Experiencing a panic attack can be a frightening experience for a teenager. Similar to adults with panic disorder, teens that experience panic attacks are susceptible to developing avoidance behaviors. When this occurs, the teen begins to stay away from situations, places, and events that he believes may trigger a panic attack. He may, for example, start to avoid crowdsâ€"such as at school assemblies or the cafeteria. He may also become fearful in cars or other forms of transportation, and feel afraid to leave places deemed safe, such as the home. Put an End to Panic-Related Avoidance Repeatedly avoiding situations that may trigger panic attacks is a condition known as agoraphobia. Although more likely to occur in adulthood, agoraphobia can develop during adolescence. About one-third of those with panic disorder will also experience agoraphobia. This condition can potentially become debilitating, causing a teen to be homebound with agoraphobia. Treatment Options If left untreated, panic disorder can negatively affect a teenager’s life and potentially lead to problems with school, relationships, and self-esteem. Only a doctor or qualified professional can diagnose a teen with panic disorder. A doctor can also rule out possible medical causes for the panic attacks and determine if any co-occurring conditions exist, such as depression. Fortunately, safe and effective treatment options are available to help teens with panic disorder. Some of the most common treatment options include psychotherapy, medications, and self-help strategies. Treatment outcomes are often best when utilizing a combination of these options and following through with treatment recommendations. Through psychotherapy, a teen can meet with a professional who treats panic disorder to work through deep emotions and develop coping strategies. Different types of psychotherapy may be availableâ€"the most common being cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), which is centered on helping the teen develop healthier ways of thinking and behaving. Find Help With the 7 Best Online Anxiety Support Groups Family psychotherapy may be necessary to assist in building supportive relationships between the teen and the rest of the family. Group therapy may also be available, in which the teen will be able to work through issues alongside peers who are also struggling with similar problems. A Word From VeryWell Panic disorder can be experienced on and off throughout one’s lifespan. For instance, a teenager may have frequent and unexpected panic attacks for several months, followed by many years without any symptoms. Regardless of whether panic disorder is experienced for a short period of time or throughout one’s life, it doesnt have to be unmanageable. The sooner a teenager gets the help he/she needs, the quicker he/she will be on the road to recovery.