What are the treatment options for panic disorder?

Panic disorder involves recurring panic attacks and concern about further attacks or their consequences. A clinician considers attack frequency, triggers, avoidance, sleep, mood, physical health, and medicines before suggesting a plan. Cognitive behavioural therapy can help identify fear-driven thoughts and gradually change responses to bodily sensations and situations.

Some people are offered prescription medicine, such as an antidepressant, when attacks are frequent or daily life is restricted. It may take time to work and should be reviewed for side effects. A [Mental Health Assessment](/treatments/consultations-and-assessment/mental-health-assessment/) can clarify the diagnosis and identify depression, trauma, substance use, or another condition needing care.

Book a [GP Consultation](/treatments/consultations-and-assessment/gp-consultation/) and describe what happens before, during, and after an attack. Keep a brief record of symptoms, caffeine or stimulant use, sleep, and avoided places. During an attack, slow your breathing, place both feet on the floor, and focus on one nearby sensory detail. Avoid changing medicine doses without clinical guidance.

Get urgent help for new chest pain, severe breathing difficulty, fainting, confusion, or symptoms that feel medically different from previous attacks. Seek immediate mental-health support if you may harm yourself, cannot stay safe, or feel detached from reality.

Ask which therapy suits your symptoms, whether medicine is appropriate, how long a trial should be reviewed, what side effects matter, and how to manage panic in feared situations.