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National Institute of Mental Health

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National Institute of Mental Health

Getting Treatment for Panic Disorder

HOW TO MAKE YOUR TREATMENT SUCCESSFUL

From the beginning, it is important to be a full participant in your treatment. Be active and assertive. Ask questions. Maintain open communication with your treatment professional and let him or her know your concerns.

Every patient responds differently, but it is important to know that none of the treatments for panic disorder works instantly. So, you must stick with a particular treatment for at least 8 weeks to see if it works. If you do not see significant improvement within that time, you and your treatment professional can adjust your treatment plan. It may take a bit of trial and error before you find what works best for you. Be patient and be sure to communicate with your treatment professional. Of course, if at any time you feel uncomfortable with the professional you have chosen or don't think your treatment is going well, you should feel free to consider seeking a second opinion or even changing providers.

If your treatment involves medication, talk with your doctor about how often and in what manner your dosage will be monitored. No matter what medication you are taking, your doctor is likely to start you on a low dose and gradually increase it to the full dose. You should know that every medication has side effects, but they usually become tolerated or diminish with time. If side effects become a problem, the doctor may advise you to stop taking the medication and to wait a week or so before trying another medication. When your treatment is near an end, your doctor will taper the dosage gradually.

SUPPORT GROUPS AND SELF-HELP TOOLS

Patient-run support groups can be a rich source of information for people with panic disorder. These groups typically involve 5 to 10 people who meet weekly to talk about their experiences, encourage each other, and share tips on coping strategies and local treatment resources. Sometimes, family members are invited to attend.

The NIMH Referral List can help you find a support group in your area. If there are no groups near you, you may want to form your own. Some of the sources listed can aid you in doing this. NIMH also has a Resource List that provides some self-help information about panic disorder, including books, articles, and videotapes.

Another way to get help is to enlist the support of friends and family members. You may want to share this booklet and other materials with them so they can better understand panic disorder and its treatment.

TAKE THE NEXT STEP TODAY

Panic disorder is far too serious—and far too treatable—to delay getting help. Recognizing the situation is the first step to recovery.

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Now take the next step. If you think you may have panic disorder, act now. See your health professional for a diagnosis and then follow the suggestions in this booklet for making your treatment successful. Educate yourself about your condition. The more you know about panic attacks and panic disorder, the better you will understand your role in treatment.

Remember, Panic Disorder Is Very Treatable. You Can Get Better.

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