7 Myths About Panic Attacks That Should Be Addressed
Panic attacks are a common and often disabling condition that is often misunderstood and surrounded by myths. Uncovering the truth behind these myths can help those affected and educate the public on effective support for affected friends and family. Here is a list of seven myths about panic attacks that should be addressed.
1. Panic attacks lead to fainting
Fainting is not fatal, as it is a temporary loss of consciousness caused by a sudden drop in blood pressure. This can be caused by various conditions, such as heat stroke, which can cause dehydration and a drop in blood pressure.
During a panic attack, blood pressure tends to rise due to anxiety, preparing the body for a fight-or-flight response. In emergencies like robberies or disasters, people rarely faint, as they react with greater mental clarity and adrenaline release, leading to faster heartbeats, faster breathing, and increased blood flow.
2. Panic attacks come out of nowhere
Panic attacks are not sudden, but rather triggered by specific psychological stressors or feared situations. Identifying these triggers is crucial for managing the condition, which can include job changes, family problems, or minor routine changes. Awareness and recognition of these triggers can help individuals adopt preventative strategies to better control their anxiety.
3. There is no cure for panic disorder
There are two main treatments for panic attacks: pharmacological therapy and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). Studies show remission rates ranging from 70% to 90% with CBT. It is based on short-term treatment protocols, allowing patients to become aware of their thoughts and behaviors, enabling them to manage them more effectively. While drug therapy can alleviate anxiety in the short term, CBT has been proven to be effective in reducing symptoms and preventing future relapses.
4. Panic attacks are a heart attack in disguise
During a panic attack, chest pain and faster heartbeat are caused by muscle tension, part of the "fight or flight" response. A heart attack is caused by a reduction or interruption of blood flow to the heart, which can happen due to a blockage in the coronary arteries that supply blood to the heart muscle. A panic attack doesn’t lead to a heart attack because the anxiety response doesn’t involve the formation of arterial blockages.
During a panic attack, the body releases adrenaline, which speeds up the heartbeat and increases activity. Contrary to popular belief, adrenaline doesn’t damage the heart and is administered directly to the heart to revive it during a heart attack.
5. Panic attacks resolve on their own
Some individuals manage their symptoms independently, but many benefit from structured interventions like cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) or medication. These therapies help change thoughts and behaviors that trigger panic attacks and manage the physical response to anxiety. Ignoring symptoms or hoping they will go away alone can prolong the disorder and worsen long-term suffering.
6. Panic attacks drive you crazy
Panic attacks, despite not leading to insanity, can cause people to feel like they are losing mental control. These intense emotional states can lead to a perception of a real risk of becoming crazy. This perception fuels repetitive thoughts or rumination, increasing anxiety and vigilance, leading to increased uncertainty and loss of ability to manage events. Everyone has a threshold of emotional tolerance, but intense emotions can falter, leading to a concrete perception of a real risk.
7. People who suffer from panic attacks are weak
The myth of panic attacks as a sign of weakness promotes a stigma, leading to feelings of isolation and shame. Panic attacks are caused by complex biological and psychological mechanisms, including autonomic nervous system dysregulation. Genetic predispositions may exist, proving that panic attacks can occur in anyone, regardless of personal or mental strength. It's crucial to recognize panic attacks as a legitimate medical condition.
