Anxiety Panic Attacks Panic Disorder

Anxiety, Panic Attacks and Panic Disorder – Part 3/6 What is Panic Disorder

Sherry-Lee Smith Child, Adolescent, Adult, Psychologist. Perth, WA

Sherry-Lee Smith

Registered Psychologist

Perth, Western Australia

What is Panic Disorder?

Panic disorder is one of the most common mental health issues. When a person has recurrent unexpected panic attacks they may have what is known as Panic Disorder. However most individuals with panic disorder experience both expected and unexpected panic attacks. Sufferers of this disorder often have worries that the symptoms of panic are caused by life-threatening conditions such as heart attacks or strokes, or worry they might have a seizure, faint, stop breathing, lose control, collapse or even die. Unfortunately, thoughts of this type often exacerbate the panic response and make it more difficult for the person to manage the ensuing anxiety.

Individuals with panic disorder persistently worry about having more panic attacks or what might happen as a consequence of having another panic attack. They may have worries about illnesses, being embarrassed or judged negatively by other people. Sometimes they have concerns about going crazy or losing control.

In response to these worries individuals with panic disorder will change they behaviour to avoid panic attacks or minimise the chances of having a panic attack. Some people will avoid exercise, restructure their lives so that they don’t have to visit places that are anxiety provoking, or ensuring help is always available or nearby (i.e. a doctor or significant other). This can significantly impact a person’s ability to live a functional and product life. Furthermore, although these changes in behaviour temporarily reduce anxiety, over time they reinforce the fear of having more panic attacks.

The severity of symptoms in panic disorder often wax and wane overtime. If left untreated panic disorder is most often a chronic condition which reduces a person’s quality of life. It is important to seek professional help if you think you or someone you care about has panic disorder.

If you are experiencing any difficulties with anxiety, panic attacks or other mental health issues and would like help please contact Sherry-Lee Smith on 042 135 1020 or smith.sherrylee@gmail.com

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Mt Lawley Counselling Centre

13 Alvan St

Mt Lawley, Perth Western Australia 6050

Sherry-Lee Smith

Registered Psychologist

Published by Sherry-Lee Smith Child, Adolescent, Adult, Psychologist. Perth, WA

Sherry-Lee Smith MAPS MAAP EMDRAA ISST CEDC Psychologist BA (Psych) Hons Registered; Perth Western Australia Sherry is a registered psychologist with 10 years experience working with adults, adolescents, and children. Sherry aims to provide a safe and supportive environment for individuals to increase their self-awareness and develop towards their full potential. Issues addressed include; depression and other mood disorders anxiety disorders (generalised anxiety, panic disorder, obsessive compulsive disorder, social anxiety etc.) stress self-harm suicidal ideation self-esteem personal growth anger management drug and alcohol use grief and loss relationship difficulties and separation adolescent issues young adult issues eating disorders insomnia body image issues family of origin issues Sherry uses an integrated therapeutic approach to counselling and psychotherapy tailoring the intervention to meet the unique needs of the client. Approaches may include Dialectical Behaviour Therapy, Cognitive Behaviour Therapy, Psychodynamic approaches, Expressive Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, Interpersonal Therapy and Narrative Therapy. Sherry has experience working at an adolescent mental health services with adolescents and their families experiencing depression, self-harm and suicidal ideation. She has co-ordinated a drug and alcohol service for adolescents and adults experiencing difficulties related to their own or another’s drug and alcohol use and co-occurring mental health issues. Sherry has worked counselling children and adolescents who have experienced parental separation and family conflict. She has experience running groups related to drug and alcohol use, parenting, grief and loss, family and relationships, bullying and friendships, self-esteem, and parental separation. Sherry is fully registered with the Psychology Board of Australia (Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency). She is also an member of the Australian Psychological Society. Medicare rebates and private health fund rebates may apply. If you would like to book an appointment with Sherry or would like further information please contact her by phone or email. Phone: 042 135 1020 Email: smith.sherrylee@gmail.com Sherry-Lee Smith Mt Lawley Counselling Centre 13 Alvan Street Mt Lawley WA

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