There are several anxiety disorders that cause situational Panic Symptoms, these include PTSD, agoraphobia and social anxiety. A sufferer of social phobia is afraid of being in situations when he or she is at the focus of a group, like public speaking for example. The thought of making a fool of themselves in front of other people creates such fear that they will try and do anything to get out of it.
People who have this disorder are likely to have a family member with the same disorder. Professionals have come to the conclusion that social anxiety is a learned habit which can affect anyone. Children who are very timid and shy are at a higher risk as are children who are abused or bullied. Adults are still at risk of developing this disorder through learned negative habits.
Agoraphobia like social phobia, affects more women than it does men. Agoraphobes are petrified of having a panic attack in a place where they can be seen. Some typical triggers for panic attacks are places with lots of people and nowhere to escape. Meetings, standing in a queue or elevator are common situations that spark fear.
Misdiagnosis can sometimes occur since this disorder shares some similarities with social anxiety. It was once considered that panic attacks were only related to panic disorder; another anxiety disorder. However many studies have shown that people with agoraphobia do not necessarily have a history of panic disorder.
People with panic disorder experience panic attacks out of the blue and have no forewarning. Unlike agoraphobia Panic Symptoms trigger when the sufferer experiences a fear associated with their condition such as going to the supermarket. At the start of an attack a sufferer may experience these panic symptoms; trembling and an accelerated heart rate and sweating.
These symptoms might escalate and the sufferer might experience extreme fear, embarrassment and sensations such as derealization. Those with acute agoraphobia may not even be able to leave their homes. You can imagine how difficult life can be.
Daily routine is restricted and most sufferers feel alone and highly depressed. Agoraphobes find it difficult to build relationships and hold a job. Depression is highly common in those with agoraphobia. A high proportion of male sufferers turn to alcohol as a way to cope with panic symptoms.
Even though anxiety disorders are highly under recognized there is Anxiety help and treatment. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy is being increasingly used over medicine. Changes to lifestyle to improve overall health can make difference too. Also self help techniques including EFT, visualization and relaxation techniques very helpful.
Some agoraphobes may avoid going to see a doctor for anxiety help because they simply can’t do it. This dilemma means that potentially thousands or millions are not treated. Regardless, getting help is the first step to recovering. If you find it difficult to seek help alone, go with someone you know.
Therapies are often designed to expose to your fears gradually. This in effect reconditions negative learnt behaviors. In addition, there are support groups available for people with various anxiety disorders. Talking about problems and giving support to others can often help with recovery. Alternatively there are forums and communities online for those who need support.