PANIC DISORDER
& PANIC ATTACKS

Panic attacks can be frightening for both the individual experiencing them and the people who witness them. During a panic attack, a child, teenager, or adult may suddenly experience an overwhelming wave of fear accompanied by intense physical symptoms such as a racing heart, chest pain, shortness of breath, dizziness, trembling, nausea, sweating, or the feeling that something terrible is about to happen. Because these symptoms can feel so intense, many people worry they are having a heart attack, losing control, or experiencing a serious medical emergency.

​

While a single panic attack does not necessarily mean someone has Panic Disorder, recurring panic attacks combined with an ongoing fear of having another attack can significantly interfere with daily life. Individuals may begin avoiding school, work, driving, sports, social activities, public places, or other situations where they fear a panic attack could occur. This cycle of fear and avoidance often causes panic disorder to become increasingly disruptive if left untreated.

​

At CARE-LA, we specialize in the assessment and treatment of Panic Disorder and panic attacks in children, adolescents, and adults. Our clinicians understand that panic symptoms can look different depending on a person's age and developmental stage. Young children may complain of stomachaches, dizziness, or refuse to separate from caregivers. Adolescents may avoid school, sports, driving, or social activities out of fear of experiencing another panic attack. Adults often struggle with work, relationships, travel, or everyday responsibilities because of persistent anxiety about future attacks.

​

Fortunately, Panic Disorder is highly treatable. CARE-LA uses evidence-based therapies that help individuals understand the biological "fight-or-flight" response, reduce fear of physical sensations, gradually eliminate avoidance behaviors, and build confidence in managing anxiety. Treatment is always individualized and may include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) when appropriate, mindfulness-based interventions, parent coaching, psychiatry, and other evidence-based approaches. Our goal is not only to reduce panic attacks but to help individuals regain confidence, return to the activities they enjoy, and live without fear controlling their lives.

​

FAQs: Panic Disorder & Panic Attacks in Children, Adolescents & Adults

​

What is Panic Disorder?

Panic Disorder is an anxiety disorder characterized by recurring, unexpected panic attacks followed by persistent worry about having additional attacks or changing behaviors to avoid them. While many people experience an occasional panic attack during times of extreme stress, Panic Disorder develops when the fear of future attacks begins interfering with daily life.

​

What does a panic attack feel like?

A panic attack is a sudden surge of intense fear or discomfort that typically reaches its peak within minutes. Symptoms may include a racing heart, chest pain, shortness of breath, dizziness, trembling, sweating, nausea, tingling sensations, or feeling detached from reality. Many individuals fear they are having a heart attack or another medical emergency, even though panic attacks themselves are not dangerous.

​

Can children have panic attacks?

Yes. Although panic attacks are more common during adolescence and adulthood, younger children can also experience them. Children may have difficulty describing what they are feeling and instead complain of physical symptoms such as stomachaches, headaches, dizziness, difficulty breathing, or a fear that something bad is about to happen.

​

What causes Panic Disorder?

Panic Disorder develops through a combination of biological, psychological, and environmental factors. Genetics, temperament, stressful life events, chronic anxiety, and heightened sensitivity to physical sensations can all contribute to the development of panic attacks and Panic Disorder.

​

What is the difference between a panic attack and an anxiety attack?

Although the term "anxiety attack" is commonly used, it is not an official mental health diagnosis. Panic attacks are sudden episodes of intense fear accompanied by physical symptoms, while anxiety often builds gradually in response to stress or worry. A licensed mental health professional can help determine whether symptoms are related to Panic Disorder, another anxiety disorder, or another medical condition.

​

How is Panic Disorder treated?

Research consistently shows that Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is one of the most effective treatments for Panic Disorder. Therapy helps individuals understand why panic attacks occur, change unhelpful thinking patterns, reduce avoidance behaviors, and gradually become less fearful of the physical sensations associated with panic. Some individuals may also benefit from medication prescribed by a psychiatrist as part of a comprehensive treatment plan.

​

Will my child outgrow panic attacks?

While some children experience occasional panic symptoms during periods of stress, recurring panic attacks should not be ignored. Early treatment can significantly reduce symptoms, prevent avoidance behaviors from becoming more severe, and improve long-term emotional well-being.

​

How can parents help a child who is having panic attacks?

Parents can provide reassurance while remaining calm, encourage slow breathing, avoid reinforcing avoidance behaviors, and help their child seek professional evaluation if panic attacks become frequent or interfere with daily life. Working collaboratively with a therapist can provide families with practical strategies to support recovery.

​

Can Panic Disorder occur alongside other conditions?

Yes. Panic Disorder commonly occurs alongside generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), social anxiety disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), depression, PTSD, and other anxiety-related conditions. A comprehensive evaluation helps ensure that all contributing factors are identified and treated.

​

Why choose CARE-LA for Panic Disorder treatment in West Los Angeles?

CARE-LA specializes in anxiety and anxiety-related disorders in children, adolescents, and adults. Our multidisciplinary team provides personalized, evidence-based treatment that may include psychotherapy, psychiatry, parent support, and other complementary services tailored to each individual's needs. We focus not only on reducing panic attacks but also on helping clients regain confidence, return to everyday activities, and develop lifelong skills for managing anxiety.