There are several anxiety disorders that cause situational Panic symptoms, these include PTSD, agoraphobia and social anxiety. A sufferer of social phobia is afraid of being in situations when he or she is at the focus of a group, like public speaking for example. Their fear of embarrassing themselves is so strong that they will try and avoid these situations at all costs.
Social anxiety can be hereditary, although this is not the only cause for this disorder. Professionals have come to the conclusion that social anxiety is a learned habit which can affect anyone. Children who are very timid and shy are at a higher risk as are children who are abused or bullied. But even into adulthood, people are still at risk.
Agoraphobia is a relatively common condition that for reasons unknown affect twice the amount of women as men. Sufferers of agoraphobia are terrified of panic attacks occurring in public places. Common fears are crowded environments and places where one can’t escape easily. Being at a group seminar, waiting at a bus stop and even going to the supermarket can trigger attacks.
This disorder sometime gets mistaken as social anxiety for obvious reasons. Doctors once believed that panic attacks were only associated with panic disorder. This is now not the case since studies have shown that many agoraphobes do not have panic disorder.
Panic attacks associated with panic disorder seem to be a lot less predictable. Most of the time, panic symptoms are triggered by a feared situation in agoraphobes. When an attack occurs a sufferer might experience a number of symptoms including a tightness in the chest and throat, shaking and palpitations.
These symptoms might escalate and the sufferer might experience extreme fear, embarrassment and sensations such as derealization. Those with acute agoraphobia may not even be able to leave their homes. This makes life very difficult to cope with.
Daily routine is restricted and most sufferers feel alone and highly depressed. Agoraphobes find it difficult to build relationships and hold a job. Depression is highly common in those with agoraphobia. Men who suffer from panic symptoms are much more likely to binge drink than women.
Breaking free from social phobia or agoraphobia is highly achievable with anxiety help. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy is being increasingly used over medicine. People who are overcoming with such disorders find lifestyle changes a great aid to overall recovery. Practicing breathing techniques and self help techniques like EFT can accelerate recovery.
For some sufferers, they just can’t overcome their fear to go out and see a doctor. This dilemma means that potentially thousands or millions are not treated. Needless to say however, it’s vital to get expert help. If you find it difficult to seek help alone, go with someone you know.
Behavioral therapy might include techniques to help you adjust to your fears over time. Old behaviors can be replaced by new positive ones this way. In addition, there are support groups available for people with various anxiety disorders. Speaking to other sufferers can be refreshing and help you deal with your problem. Online forums for anxiety disorders are another source of help and support.
