Coping with Panic Disorder

Panic Disorder Treatment and Therapy in Toronto

What is Panic Disorder?

Panic attacks are common and normal, however they become problematic when they consistently happen, and they are unexpected and unpredictable. Panic Disorder is an anxiety disorder in which an individual experiences regular, unexpected panic attacks. Fortunately, there are many effective virtual and in-person treatments and therapies in Toronto that can help children reduce the intensity and frequency of their panic attacks.

What are Common Symptoms of Panic Attacks?

• Increased heart rate, rapid breathing

• Dizziness, numbness

• Sense of things being unreal or feeling detached from oneself

• Fear of losing control

• Fear of dying

• Chest pain, fear of having a heart attack

What are Common Symptoms of Panic Disorder?

Children with panic disorder may show the following symptoms:

• Feel sudden or intense fear that triggers a panic attack – panic attacks are unexpected and unpredictable

• Excessive worry about future episodes

• Fear of something bad happening because of a panic attack or fear of humiliation

• Adapt behaviour to try to prevent future episodes:

  • Avoid activities that cause panic-like symptoms (i.e. exercise)

  • Carry items for emergencies (i.e. water, cell phone)

  • Sit near exits or bathrooms

How to Support Children with Panic Disorder?

• For communication:

  • Create a signal with the child that they can use to inform you of when they feel a panic attack coming and need take a time-out

• For emotional regulation:

  • Teach the child self-regulation strategies for when they feel overwhelmed (i.e. deep breathing, muscle relaxation)

  • Create coping cards that the child can keep with them to help manage anxiety

  • Teach the child how to identify thoughts that trigger feelings of panic

Panic Disorder Support for Families

For individuals and families in Toronto struggling with panic disorder, there are a variety of in-person and virtual treatments that may be beneficial, including:

• Child anxiety programs and groups

• Cognitive behavioural therapy

• Emotional regulation training

• Anxiety behavioural therapy for kids

• Exposure therapy

• Parent anxiety programs and groups

• Online anxiety programs