PANIC ATTACKS

A MISSION FOR MICHAEL

With warmth, understanding, and expert interventions, AMFM can help you overcome panic attacks and regain your confidence.

business man visibly upset looking at paperwork.

When panic attacks can strike anytime, it’s hard to feel like you’re flourishing.

Mentally, you know it’s “just” a panic attack – but it feels like being caught in a storm, except you’re the only one who can hear the thunder. 

One moment, you’re going about your day, and the next, your heart races, your breath shortens, and the world seems to close in around you. It’s like your body has sounded an alarm that you can’t silence, and you’re left feeling overwhelmed, scared, and utterly alone.

These attacks seem like they can come out of nowhere, turning ordinary moments into battles against an invisible enemy. You might find yourself avoiding places or situations for fear of triggering another attack, even though you know it’s making your world that much smaller.  But what else can you do when you feel like you’re walking on a tightrope, always cautious, and always bracing for the next fall?

At AMFM, we understand that panic attacks can be intense. We know how real and all-consuming they can feel. But we also know that with the right support and strategies, panic attacks can become a story of something that used to control you, but doesn’t anymore. 

You don’t have to face this alone; we’re here to offer the guidance and care you need to regain your balance and peace of mind.

Panic Attack Symptoms

Panic attacks can show up in some intense, often frightening ways. Recognizing the signs that what you’re experiencing is a panic attack is important- and it’s also the first step toward getting the help you need.

Here’s what you or a loved one might experience during a panic attack:

Rapid Heartbeat:

An uncomfortably fast heartbeat (that can might even make you think you’re having a heart attack!)

Sweating:

 Unexplained sweating even when you’re not exerting yourself.

Trembling or Shaking:

Involuntary shaking that can make you feel vulnerable or out of control.

Shortness of Breath or Trouble Breathing:

Feeling like you can’t catch your breath, which can heighten the panic.

Feeling of Impending Doom:

An overwhelming sense that something terrible is about to happen, even without any visible danger.

Dizziness or Lightheadedness:

A woozy or spinning sensation that can make standing or concentrating difficult.

Nausea:

A sudden, unsettling stomach upset.

Chest Pain or Discomfort:

Again, this can be mistaken for a heart condition.

Numbness or Tingling Sensations:

Often described as pins and needles in various parts of the body.

Panic attacks can be completely unpredictable, which means even if you’re not in the middle of one, you’re wondering when the next one is coming.

Identifying panic attacks can help you avoid checking into the ER whenever you experience one. But recognition is also important because panic attacks can be treated. At AMFM, we can help you by providing the tools and support you need to not just survive but thrive beyond panic attacks.

Possible Causes

Panic attacks don’t discriminate; they can affect anyone, at any time, often without warning. But once you’ve had one panic attack, you might be more likely to have another. 

Understanding the causes behind these overwhelming experiences is a crucial part of the puzzle in finding effective treatment. Here are some factors that may contribute to panic attacks:

Stress:

High levels of stress, whether from work, relationships, or other life pressures, can trigger panic attacks.

Genetic Predisposition:

 A family history of anxiety disorders or panic attacks can increase your risk.

Significant Life Changes:

Events like graduating, starting a new job, getting married, or experiencing a loss can act as catalysts.

Underlying Mental Health Conditions:

Conditions such as depression, anxiety disorders, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) are often linked to panic

Underlying Mental Health Conditions:

Conditions such as depression, anxiety disorders, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) are often linked to panic attacks. Panic disorder is a condition characterized by recurrent, unexpected panic attacks and ongoing fear of having another attack.

Medical Conditions:

Some physical health issues, like thyroid disorders or heart conditions, can mimic or exacerbate panic attack symptoms.

Substance Use:

The use of caffeine, alcohol, and certain drugs can provoke panic attacks in susceptible individuals.

Panic attacks are a sign of underlying issues, not a weakness. They mean that your body is trying to tell you something important about your wellbeing. At AMFM, we delve into these potential causes with compassion and expertise, looking to uncover the root of your panic attacks we we can create a personalized plan for relief and recovery.

Possible Treatments

For those struggling with panic attacks, there are a lot treatment options that can help. At AMFM, we combine evidence-based therapies into personalized care plans to address both the symptoms and underlying causes of panic attacks. Here’s a look at some of the treatments we may include in your care plan:

Therapeutic Interventions:

There are a range of therapy techniques that can help with panic attacks,  including Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Exposure Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR).

Lifestyle Changes:

Incorporating regular exercise, a balanced diet, and sufficient sleep can significantly impact your overall well-being and reduce anxiety.

Breathing Techniques and Mindfulness:

 Learning to control your breathing and practicing mindfulness can help manage the physical symptoms of panic attacks in the moment, reducing their intensity and duration.

Each person’s experience with panic attacks is unique, which is why our team at AMFM works closely with you to develop a treatment plan tailored to you.

AMFM's Holistic Approach

At AMFM, we invite you to dream bigger than just managing your symptoms- we want you to rebuild a life filled with confidence and freedom. That’s why our approach goes beyond immediate relief, focusing on long-term strategies and personal empowerment:

Comprehensive Treatment Strategy:

We understand that panic attacks are more than moments of intense fear; they're signals of underlying issues. That's why we craft treatment plans that address both the symptoms and their root causes. From cognitive-behavioral therapy to medication management, we ensure each plan is as unique as the individual.
Building a Supportive Network:

Recovery is a journey best traveled with support. AMFM fosters a nurturing environment through group therapy, peer support, and family counseling, creating a community that encourages healing and growth.
Empowering Through Knowledge:

We educate our clients about their condition, providing them with the insights needed to understand their triggers, recognize early warning signs, and apply effective coping strategies.
A Path to Lasting Well-being:

Our commitment to our clients doesn't end with crisis management. We address a wide range of needs to strengthen resilience, enhance coping skills, and improve overall mental and physical health. This includes lifestyle advice, from nutrition to physical activity, for a holistic approach to recovery.
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Panic attacks may have disrupted your life, but they don’t get to define it anymore. With AMFM’s dedicated team, you can regain control and start flourishing again.

Take the first step towards freedom from panic attacks. Reach out to AMFM today and discover how we can help you or your loved one start a new chapter.

Schedule a consultation