Panic disorder is a specific type of anxiety disorder characterised by sudden and unexpected panic attacks. These attacks can be debilitating and often leave the sufferer feeling overwhelmed and helpless. Panic disorder can affect anyone, regardless of age or gender, and can significantly impact a person's quality of life.
Fortunately, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) has proven to be an effective treatment for panic disorder. Our trusted therapist in Glasgow explains this for you:
What is Cognitive Behavioural Therapy?
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, or simply CBT, is a form of psychotherapy focusing on changing negative patterns of thinking and behaviour. CBT aims to help people identify and challenge adverse thoughts and beliefs that contribute to their anxiety, depression, or other mental health problems. By changing these negative patterns, people can learn to manage their emotions more effectively and improve their overall mental health.
How does CBT work for Panic Disorder?
CBT for Panic Disorder is a specific type of therapy that aims to help people manage their panic attacks and reduce their overall anxiety levels. The therapy is typically conducted over 12-16 weeks and involves weekly sessions with a therapist. The therapist will work with the patient to identify the triggers that lead to their panic attacks and develop strategies to manage them.
CBT for Panic Disorder typically involves three main components:
1. Education – The therapist will educate the patient about the nature of panic attacks and anxiety. This includes teaching them about the physical symptoms of panic attacks and how the body reacts to stress.
2. Cognitive Restructuring – The therapist will work with the patient to identify negative thoughts and beliefs contributing to their anxiety. The patient will learn to challenge and replace these negative thoughts with more positive and realistic ones.
3. Exposure Therapy – The therapist will gradually expose the patient to the situations or triggers that lead to their panic attacks. This exposure is done in a controlled and safe environment. The patient is taught coping strategies to manage anxiety during these exposures.
What to Expect during CBT for Panic Disorder
CBT for Panic Disorder can be an intense therapy, and it requires a willingness to change and engage in the therapy process. Patients can expect to be actively involved in their treatment and must be committed to attending therapy sessions regularly.
During the first several sessions, the therapist will work with the patient to develop a treatment plan. This plan will outline the goals of therapy and the strategies that will be used to achieve these goals. The therapist may also conduct a thorough assessment of the patient's mental health history and any other conditions that may be contributing to their anxiety.
Patients will learn specific techniques to manage their anxiety and prevent panic attacks as therapy progresses. These techniques may include relaxation techniques, breathing exercises, and mindfulness practices. The patient will also learn to challenge negative thoughts and replace them with more positive and realistic ones.
Exposure therapy is an essential component of CBT for Panic Disorder. Patients can expect to be gradually exposed to the situations or triggers that lead to their panic attacks. This exposure is done in a controlled and safe environment, and patients are taught coping strategies to manage their anxiety during these exposures.
Overall, patients can expect to feel more in control of their anxiety and panic attacks as they progress through therapy. They will learn how to manage their symptoms effectively and prevent panic attacks from occurring.
Benefits of CBT for Panic Disorder
CBT for Panic Disorder has been proven to be an effective treatment for panic disorder. Research has shown that CBT can significantly reduce the frequency and intensity of panic attacks, improve overall mental health, and enhance the quality of life.
CBT is also a relatively short-term therapy; patients can expect to see results within a few weeks of starting treatment. Compared to other forms of therapy, CBT is also generally more affordable and accessible.
Conclusion
Panic disorder can be a debilitating condition, but it is treatable. Cognitive Behavioural Therapy is an effective treatment option for panic disorder. It can help people manage their symptoms and improve their overall mental health.
By working with a therapist in Glasgow, patients can learn coping strategies to manage their anxiety and prevent panic attacks from occurring. CBT is a short-term, affordable, and accessible therapy that can significantly improve the quality of life for people living with panic disorder.
Get-Unstuck Counselling and Therapy Glasgow offers confidential, solution-focused Cognitive Behavioural Therapy or CBT counselling in Glasgow City Centre, both in person and online. Schedule your appointment with us today!