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Panic Attacks

A panic attack is a discrete period of intense apprehension, fear, or terror that develops abruptly and usually peaks within 10 minutes, lasting 5 - 30 minutes. It is often accompanied by a sense of doom or an urge to escape.

Panic attacks have some of the following characteristics: palpitations or accelerated heart rate, sweating, chest pain, nausea, dizziness, derealization, and a sensation of tingling, burning, pricking, or numbness of the skin with no apparent long-term physical effect. They often occur in crowded public places.

An initial panic attack is generally alarming and may lead to a visit to the GP Surgery or A&E, where routine labs (ECG) results are normal, and the client may be told it was “nerves”.

Onset typically begins in adolescents or mid 30’s (79% before age 30). 72% identify a stressor leading up to the first attack.

If panic attacks reoccur, the sufferer may be referred for more extensive tests. If the medical professional still finds nothing, psychiatry may be consulted.

Panic Disorder consists of recurrent two or more unexpected panic (or anxiety) attacks accompanied by at least 1 month (or more) of persistent concern about having another attack, worry about implications of another attack, or significant behavioral change related to the attack.

Seek help if you are experiencing the symptoms of a panic attack. 70%-90% of individuals with panic attacks improve with time and/or treatments.

Addictions
Anger
Anxiety
Bereavement
Depression
Gender and Sexuality
Panic Attacks
Relationship Problems
Shame
Suicidal Thoughts
Trauma and Abuse

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Addictions
You may find that your continued involvement with a substance or activity, despite its negative consequences, is a sign of addiction, which requires understanding and addressing the roots of the issue in healthier ways.
Anger and Conflict
Conflict in relationships escalate through three stages: complaint is expressing dissatisfaction, criticism involves identifying recurring behavioral patterns, but contempt, the most toxic stage, attacks a person’s character, leading to a destructive ‘you versus me’ dynamic
Anxiety
If you’re experiencing symptoms of anxiety such as apprehension, tension, or excessive worry, it’s important to talk to your GP and consider counselling, as it can provide valuable support and strategies to address underlying contributing factors and manage anxiety effectively.
Bereavement
In the heart-wrenching journey of grieving a loved one, counselling can be a vital support, helping individuals navigate the intense emotions associated with the Five Stages of Grief: Denial, Anger, Bargaining, Depression, and Acceptance.
Depression
If you are experiencing symptoms like persistent low mood, loss of interest in activities, and other emotional or physical changes, your GP can provide initial support and medication. Speaking with a counsellor can help identify the underlying factors and help you through.
Gender and Sexual Identity
If you have questions about your gender or sexuality, deeply intertwined with your self-identity, counselling can offer a supportive environment to enhance your self-awareness, navigate societal challenges, and gain a clearer understanding of your true self.