Abstract In this article, the writer notes that the current research on panicdisorder, as well as its treatment is telling of the state of the disorder in the population, as well as inroads being made in its treatment and diagnosis. The writer maintains that the works studied here, collectively give the impression that panicdisorder can be a life altering disorder that can progress rapidly, even in children. The writer points out that panicdisorder is much more likely to occur in women than men, with the exception of those with post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), who are more likely to be men if they are returning from war and more likely to be women if PTSD is associated with sexual/physical or emotional abuse in childhood. The writer concludes that the works examined also stress the need for more research, especially regarding the understanding of any potential biological effects that may be a result of chemical/hormonal changes that occur during panic.
From the Paper "Both of these lines of research are ripe for additional investigation, as they seem to clearly complicate and possibly exacerbate the social affect of the disorder to a large degree and are secondary problems shared by many who experience the disorder.
"Other related disorders also give more clear insight into panic disorder, as post traumatic stress disorder has increased in severity as well as incidence, given the prolonged state of national crisis, war and other issues involving over stimulation in the fast paced society we share. One review work, demonstrates the conflicts and controversy that surrounds PTSD, often a precursor to panic disorder as the disorder leaves the individual with a cognitive reaction to normal events in an exaggerated panicked, fashion and in many ways correlates to panic disorder. The article states that victims in the past have been treated ineffectually due to preconceived notions about the traumatic event, if they are conscious of the memory or event and if they experienced such trauma as a result of war, as the politics of war and the dynamic of the military have skewed opinions and therefore policy on treatment, as has advocates and opponents of recovered memory subjects. "
Abstract This paper provides definitions of panicdisorder and panic attacks and gives an overview of their symptoms and the types of panic attacks that can occur. The writer explains that it is difficult to determine what causes panicdisorder as it occurs in many different situations and contexts, often together with other phobias, disorders, or medical conditions. It is frequently associated with depression, which has important implications for the psychiatric treatment of patients. The writer concludes with a brief overview of treatments, and a recommendation for further research in order better to understand this syndrome.
Outline:
Introduction and Overview
Causative Factors
PanicDisorders and Depression
Conclusion: the Importance of Treatment
From the Paper "In terms of these categories, one of the problematic areas of this disorder is the fact that sufferers often state that their first attack seemed to have "...come on totally "out of the blue" during an ordinary activity such as shopping or working at their desks" (Root 3). This usually leads to feelings of insecurity and loss of control and is also often associated with various tasks and situations. This has implications in terms of the way that the patient or sufferer deals with the disorder; for example "... the unpredictable nature of the acute episode which contributes so strongly to the interepisodic anxiety and avoidant coping strategies" (Root 3)."
Abstract This paper reviews and discusses various articles written about panicdisorders in pregnant women, and in children. The paper also takes a look at anxiety disorder. The paper suggests that panicdisorders may have both psychological and biochemical origins. The paper reports that children who are abused have a higher risk for panicdisorder in adulthood, and mothers with panicdisorders often give birth to smaller babies.
From the Paper "Results indicate that mothers with panic disorder continued to have panic attacks throughout their pregnancies. Only 8% also had symptoms of depression during pregnancy. Between them and the control group, no significant differences were found in terms of maternal age, race, socioeconomic status, primiparous status, smoking during pregnancy, or psychotropic medications taken during pregnancy. Panic disorder mothers had higher blood pressures and were more likely to report eating disorders, but no significant differences were found in the gestational ages of their babies and mothers in the control group; however, PD mothers had babies with significantly lower birth weights. Their infants were not born earlier, but they were smaller; however, although the birth weights were significantly smaller, they were not below normal. A statistical analysis allowed the researchers to conclude that other variables, such as smoking and high stress, were not responsible for the finding of low birth rate in PD mothers. They do point out that if PD risk were combined with other risk factors, this could spell problems for the child. They admit that causes of low-birth weight may not have been completely determined and some of their analytic methods could have affected their findings. The use of Caucasian, middle-to-upper class women meant the sample was not representative of the entire population."
This paper discusses research on anxiety and panicdisorders combining personal experience and statistics, causes, descriptions, and treatments of the disorders.
Abstract The author begins the paper with an account of a panic attack he suffered. He then goes into the definition of panicdisorder and the similar disorder anxiety disorder. He lists the symptoms, treatment, and general statistics of the two disorders. Paper includes pie graph with explanation of the statistics.
From the Paper "According to the National Institute of Mental Health, Panic Disorder is characterized by unexpected and repeated episodes of intense fear accompanied by physical symptoms that may include chest pain, heart palpitations, shortness of breath, dizziness or abdominal distress (Facts). The first panic attack is usually the worst, especially if it is accompanied by severe physical symptoms. It is very similar to a heart attack, and since a person's mind goes into complete induced chaos and fear during such an attack people tend to think the worst, that the end is coming. Panic Disorder is a kind of severe anxiety disorder."
Abstract This paper provides a clinical description of panicdisorder, describes its symptoms, medical conditions that may trigger it, the different types of panicdisorders, possible causes of the disorder, and treatment.
From the Paper "According to Robins and Regier's 1991 study, approximately 2.4 million American adults ages 18 to 54 have panic disorder. This is 1.7 percent of people in this age group. The onset of this disorder occurs most commonly in late adolescence and early adulthood. Panic disorder is more prevalent in females than in males by approximately fifty percent."
Abstract This paper provide thorough description and explanation of the Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory and the DSM-IV definition of PanicDisorder. A discussion is presented with respect as to how the MMPI can be used by a clinician in detecting the panicdisorder. A full explanation was given along with a hypothetical case study situation.
From the Paper "Throughout history mental disorders have plagued mankind without benefit of understanding or empathy. In fact the majority of mental disorders such as schizophrenia, personality disorders, manic-depressive or bipolar disorders have long been misunderstood and mistreated. As a result of the misunderstanding of the mental disease process fear and shame were often the hallmarks of those who were afflicted. At times those afflicted with a mental disease were tortured, burned at the stake as heretics, and even placed in "cleansing vats", all in the name of purifying the mind. Today, however, through a more compassionate and scientific understanding, mental disorders have become a recognizable disease characterized by a disruption of the body's psycho-neurobiological process (Docherty, et al, 2003). The most arduous task confronting clinical mental health practitioners is that of diagnosing mental disorders and the process has become equally complex. "
Abstract This paper examines how psychiatric disorders affect people of all ages and walks of life and how some are diagnosable as early as infancy. It analyzes how much of the etiology of today's recognized disorders and syndromes in children are poorly understood and difficult to trace in children and adolescents. It looks at how many factors contribute to this lack of empirical evidence and how studies are ongoing with intent to isolate, define and better treat these conditions in our children. It describes some of these conditions and looks at the etiology, characteristics, morbidity and mortality.
Outline
Generalized Anxiety Disorder PanicDisorder with Agoraphobia
Adolescent Social Phobia
Post Traumatic Stress Disorder Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder
From the Paper "Many clinicians view Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) as a neuropsychiatric disorder. These symptoms have been alleviated in early trials by using serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) leading researchers to believe that OCD may be a genetically acquired disorder. Further, neuroimaging indicates the possibility of abnormal functioning in neurological circuits linking cortical areas of the brain to the basal ganglia. SSRIs also appear to help with this disorder. Further studies are being conducted to establish the interrelationship of neurotransmitter and neuroendocrine abnormalities in childhood-onset OCD and will ultimately be compiled to determine the causal factors."
Abstract This paper examines how evidence-based practice closes the ever increasing gap between research and clinical practice and in particular, examines how, through a literature review, the best treatment for panicdisorder without agoraphobia can be found.
Outline
What is Evidence Based Practice?
My Client
The Questions
The Resources
The Evaluation
The Client
Self-Evaluation
Strengths and Weaknesses
From the Paper "First introduced to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 3rd Edition (DSM-III) in 1980 Panic disorder (PD) is characterised by cognitive fears such anticipation of death, unexpected panic attacks and somatic symptomology such as dizziness, trembling, or heart palpitations. Those inflicted with such a disorder have recurrent fears of panic attacks and feel anxious whilst such symptomology appears to be in remission. Recent diagnostic criteria such as DSM-III-R and DSM-IV report prevalence of 2.3% (Kessler, Stang, Wittchen, Ustun, Roy-Byrne, & Walters; 1998)."
Abstract This paper discusses the use of biofeedback for the treatment of panicdisorder. The writer takes the reader on an exploratory journey through a description of the disorder as well as information about biofeedback and how effective it is for this particular disorder.
From the Paper "In recent years many people have become interested in the natural remedies for their problems. Working to get away from prescription medications has been a focal point for both the medical and the mental health fields. Panic disorder is a relatively common disorder that is currently treated in several ways. Using biofeedback shows promise in the lessening of symptoms without the use of pharmaceuticals."
Abstract This well-researched paper examines the rising numbers of people diagnosed with various forms of generalized anxiety disorders. According to the National Institute of Mental Health generalized anxiety disorders (GAD) are one of the most common mental illnesses in the U.S. with more than 23 million people diagnosed each year. This paper details various varieties of anxiety disorders which fall under the heading of GAD, including: Panicdisorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, phobias and post-traumatic stress disorder. This paper details the causes and symptoms of GAD as well as the available effective treatments which include: medication, specific forms of psychotherapy known as behavioral therapy and cognitive-behavioral therapy, or a combination of medication and non-medication therapies. This paper also cites the results of a specific case study which ascertained the relative value of medication combined with traditional group therapy versus cognitive therapies alone in treating GAD.
Table of Contents:
Abstract
Introduction
Procedure/Method
Review of the Literature
Summary
References
From the Paper "To ascertain the relative value of medication combined with traditional group therapy vs. cognitive therapies alone in treating generalized anxiety disorder, two groups of young to middle-aged groups were initiated. Each group began with four members, drawn from clients of an Employee Assistance Program; all had developed generalized anxiety disorder after being transferred or otherwise coming under the supervision of various types of ineffective, antisocial, overbearing or micromanaging bosses. All of the participants were looking for other employment, but all had to cope with the situation as is in the meantime; with a soft job market, none expected to be able to wait it out without help and also, many had expressed a need to overcome the anxiety to make the job search possible."
Abstract Anxiety disorders are a varied and complicated set of physical and psychological problems that affect more than twenty million Americans. This paper examines these disorders, which include general anxiety disorder (GAD), panicdisorders, and phobias. It shows how these can often exert a disabling influence upon the individual's life, and disrupt his or her personal and social interactions. Treatments are discussed which focus upon helping the individual to identify and understand the irrationality of their anxiety, and to assist them in facing up to their fears.
From the Paper "Anxiety is, "one of the main motivating forces in much of human behavior" (Beck & Emery, 1985, p. 13), and is a normal reaction to a threatening object or situation. It produces a wide range of physiological and psychological effects that are often described as preparing the body for primitive "fight or flight". These symptoms result from the increased amount of adrenaline that is produced by the sympathetic nervous system, which causes an increase in the heart and respiration rate, the raising of blood pressure, and the contraction of blood vessels in the skin and intestines as blood is diverted to the heart, lungs and muscles (P.H.R., 1997). Although these reactions are appropriate when faced with incidents of threat or danger, if this level of anxiety continues after the threat has been removed, or if no real threat exists, these physical and psychological symptoms can lead to the development of anxiety disorders."
Abstract This paper first defines and classifies panic attacks. The writer discusses diagnostic criteria and looks into the causes of panic attacks. In this paper, the writer examines what panic attacks are and how they relate to anxiety disorders. The writer also discusses why panic attacks are so frequently misunderstood.
From the Paper "The American Psychiatric Association see DSM IV defines anxiety disorders as a group of diagnosable disorders with certain shared features and certain clinical distinctions. The anxiety disorders are typically classified according to the severity and duration of their symptoms and specific behavioral characteristics. The classification categories include; Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) which is long-lasting and low-grade, Panic disorder which has more dramatic symptoms, Phobias Performance anxiety, Obsessive-compulsive ... "
Abstract This paper analyzes cognitive behavioral and attachment based family therapy in treating children with anxiety disorder. It looks at the characteristics of anxiety disorder among children and whether these traits are common in the families of these children. It then focuses on how cognitive behavior therapy and attachment based family therapy can be used to lessen or eliminate problems associated with anxiety disorder.
Table of Contents:
Introduction
Characteristics of Anxiety Disorder among Children
Theories of Attachment
Attachment-Based Family Therapy
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
Conclusion
From the Paper "This paper has explored issues of social anxiety and social phobias within children. While not all forms of anxiety emerge from a negative or undesirable home environment, there are many correlates between the home environment and the child's behavior. Theorists working in family attachment theory witness different outcomes based on the needs of the child; a supportive environment in which normal standards of interaction are maintained is desirable for helping a child cultivate a positive outlook and avoid cultivating anxiety disorders. Attachment based family therapy and cognitive behavior therapy can help the family reconcile inappropriate or misplaced roles and facilitate a normal environment for the developing child."
Abstract The paper explains that the purpose of this study is to illustrate how lack of familial communication and self-esteem, compounded by emotional abuse, can lead to generalized anxiety and diminished self- regulatory patterns, associated with anxiety sensitivity disorder. Cognitive behavioral therapy is integrated into the findings of the study and presented as a treatment alternative. The client selected for this study is a 45 year old Caucasian woman with a history of anxiety. The paper explains the anxiety disorder and discusses the use of cognitive behavior therapy to help people with anxiety transform maladaptive thinking patterns into more positive and self promoting behaviors.
Outline:
Introduction
Etiology and Factors Influencing Anxiety Sensitivity
Theoretical Basis for Clinical Treatment
Client History
Case Discussion
Conclusion
From the Paper "The client selected for this study is a 45 year old Caucasian woman with a history of anxiety. The selection is based on the following interest areas (1) the clients perceived inability to take charge or control of her personal situation and subsequently, control of her child (2) the client's history of apparent indirect emotional abuse at the hands of her husband and (3) the client developed anxiety in response to the difficulty she is experiencing in her relationships with her husband and son which ultimately serve to impair her daily living, meeting the criteria for affective disorders including depression and anxiety, but more specifically for anxiety sensitivity and generalized anxiety disorder (Bowman, et al. 1997; Reiss, 1991)."
