Panic disorder is categorised by the DSM-5 as an anxiety disorder in which recurrent and unexpected panic attacks are experienced by the patient. A panic attack is described by the DSM-5 as the sudden feeling of intense and extreme fear and/or discomfort. This sudden feeling can arise from a calm or anxious state. Within the minutes of having a panic attack four of thirteen symptoms are experienced. Examples of these symptoms include; nausea, trembling, sweating, shortness of breath, heart palpitations, intense fear of losing control etc (American Psychiatric Association, 2013). Along with recurrent unexpected panic attacks the patient must have experienced one or more months of one out of the two factors. The first factor is ongoing fear of having another panic attack or worry over the consequences of experiencing another panic attack (APA, 2013). The second factor is a significant change in behaviour in an attempt to combat or avoid another panic attack. An example of this would be avoiding situations that could trigger a panic attack (APA, 2013). Monday:
Mondays are always the toughest days for everyone. I think that is why I wake up with the dread and knot in my stomach. The tone for the day was already set with the thought of walking up the
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I do not think the panic attack was caused by the call as she soothed some of the worrying feelings I had. The fact that my panic attacks are so unexpected has resulted in me being a lot more cautious over my actions. Coming up with a plan to avoid any situation that could put me in danger or trigger a panic attack has been my main focus for the day. My mother has suggested I seek some type of counselling in order to deal with the problem. I understand her concern but I am grateful that I found the courage to talk to someone about what I have been feeling. Living in hostel can be stressful as you can feel lonely even though there are many people