Panic Disorder in Children and Adolescents

  • A panic attack is defined as an episode of intense fear, comprised of both physical symptoms (e.g., sweaty palms, heart pounding) and fearful thoughts (e.g., “I am going to die”). They usually last for about 10-15 minutes.
  • Panic attacks are not caused by medical conditions or health problems and can occur any time.
  • Panic attacks can occur in the context of many anxiety disorders (e.g., when someone with a needle phobia is about to get a shot); however, an individual may be diagnosed with Panic Disorder when they experience recurrent panic attacks that occur “out of the blue,” resulting in intense anxiety between panic attacks about experiencing another panic attack and avoidance of situations in which panic attacks may be more likely to occur.
  • Individuals with Panic Disorder commonly begin to experience symptoms in adolescence; Panic Disorder in younger children is less common.

Many youth with Panic Disorder report avoiding places which would be difficult to get away or escape if a panic attack occurred. For many, this means that they stop going to the mall or other crowded places, to school, or to sporting events they used to enjoy. The avoidance of places or situations may come to greatly restrict one’s life. When one’s life becomes restricted by the disorder, the condition is called Agoraphobia. Approximately 1/3 of those with Panic Disorder have Agoraphobia.

Symptoms

Key symptoms of Panic Disorder are the recurrence of panic attacks and the persistent concern that an attack will lead to more attacks, physical harm, or psychological harm. Common physical panic symptoms include:

  • Increased heart rate
  • Chest pain
  • Choking sensations
  • Difficulty breathing
  • Sweating and trembling
  • Gastrointestinal distress
  • Body temperature changes
  • Hot or cold flushes
  • Dizziness
  • Numbness or tingling in the limbs

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