Panic Disorder Treatment
Locations in Chicago & Westmont, IL

Living with panic disorder can feel overwhelming. The sudden onset of intense fear and physical symptoms can disrupt daily routines, relationships, and even work or school life. You may feel like you are constantly on edge, unsure when the next panic attack might strike. The unpredictability of this condition can lead to avoidance behaviors, limiting social interactions and creating barriers to achieving personal or professional goals.

At Midwest Wellness Center Associates, located in Chicago and Westmont, IL, we understand the profound impact panic disorder can have on your life. Our goal is to provide expert care to help you regain control over your mental and emotional well-being. We offer tailored treatment plans designed to address your specific needs and challenges.

If you want to learn more about treatment for panic disorder, please call (630) 496-5368 for our Westmont location or (773) 900-8781 for our Chicago location.

What is Panic Disorder?

Panic disorder is a type of anxiety disorder that goes beyond the occasional bouts of nervousness or stress that many people experience. It involves recurrent panic attacks—sudden episodes of intense fear that peak within minutes. These episodes are often accompanied by physical symptoms so severe that individuals sometimes believe they are having a heart attack or other life-threatening medical emergency.

Unlike general anxiety, which may arise in response to specific stressors, panic disorder can strike without warning, making it difficult to predict or control. Over time, many people with panic disorder develop a constant fear of experiencing another panic attack, leading them to avoid places, situations, or activities where they previously had an attack. This avoidance behavior can severely limit daily functioning, leaving you in a cycle of fear and isolation.

If left untreated, panic disorder can worsen, increasing the risk of developing other mental health conditions, such as depression or agoraphobia. Therefore, seeking early intervention is crucial for managing symptoms and improving quality of life.

What are Symptoms of Panic Disorder?

Panic disorder presents both emotional and physical symptoms that can be debilitating. These symptoms can occur suddenly, without warning, and typically last for about 10-20 minutes, though some may persist longer.

• Intense feelings of fear or terror that seem to come out of nowhere
• Accelerated heart rate or palpitations, often described as feeling like your heart is racing
• Difficulty breathing or a sense of choking
• Chest pain or discomfort, often mistaken for a heart attack
• Sweating, shaking, or trembling
• Feelings of lightheadedness, dizziness, or faintness
• Nausea, abdominal discomfort, or gastrointestinal distress
• Hot flashes or chills
• Numbness or tingling in the hands, feet, or face
• A sense of detachment from reality, feeling like you’re outside of your own body (derealization or depersonalization)
• Fear of losing control or “going crazy.”
• Fear of dying or that something terrible is about to happen

What Causes Panic Disorder?

Panic disorder does not have a single cause but may stem from a combination of factors. Understanding these contributing elements can help with both prevention and treatment.

• Genetics: A family history of panic disorder or other anxiety disorders may increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
• Brain Chemistry: Imbalances in neurotransmitters, such as serotonin and norepinephrine, can impact mood regulation and increase vulnerability to panic attacks.
• Stress and Trauma: Major life stressors, such as the death of a loved one, divorce, or traumatic events, can act as triggers for panic disorder.
• Personality Factors: People with a more anxious temperament or those who struggle to manage stress may be more prone to developing panic disorder.
• Medical Conditions: Some physical health conditions, such as hyperthyroidism, can mimic or contribute to panic attacks, complicating diagnosis and treatment.

Identifying the root causes of panic disorder is key to developing an effective treatment plan tailored to the individual.

How We Treat Panic Disorder

Treatment for panic disorder is both effective and accessible, and at Midwest Wellness Care, we offer a holistic approach to help our patients manage and overcome the condition. A combination of therapy, medication, and lifestyle adjustments is often the most effective way to reduce the severity and frequency of panic attacks.

• Psychotherapy: Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is the gold standard for treating panic disorder. It helps individuals identify thought patterns that trigger panic attacks and teaches coping mechanisms to change those responses. Through gradual exposure therapy, patients can confront their fears in a safe, controlled environment, reducing avoidance behaviors.
• Medication: Medications may be prescribed to manage symptoms. While medication is not a cure, it can provide relief from the most debilitating symptoms, allowing patients to engage more fully in therapy and daily activities.
• Lifestyle Changes: Regular exercise, mindfulness techniques, and stress reduction strategies, such as yoga or meditation, can complement traditional treatments. Maintaining a healthy diet and getting enough sleep also play an important role in emotional and mental well-being.
• Support Systems: Building a strong support network—whether through family, friends, or support groups—can provide encouragement and a sense of community, helping individuals feel less alone in their journey.

If you or someone you love is struggling with panic disorder, Midwest Wellness Center Associates is here to help. We work with some of the top psychiatrists in Illinois. Please contact us at (630) 496-5368 for our Westmont location or (773) 900-8781 for our Chicago office to schedule a consultation. With the right treatment and support, it is possible to live a life free from the constraints of panic disorder.