Understanding Panic Attacks: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment at Greater Heights Holistic Psychiatry

/ Awareness / By

At Greater Heights Holistic Psychiatry in Houston, we recognize that panic attacks can be overwhelming and frightening experiences. Whether you’ve had a single episode or deal with recurring attacks, the intense fear and physical symptoms can make daily life feel like a struggle. Our clinic is dedicated to providing compassionate care to help individuals manage and overcome these distressing moments.

What Is a Panic Attack?

A panic attack is a sudden onset of intense fear or discomfort that typically peaks within minutes. Many people who experience a panic attack for the first time may feel like they’re having a heart attack or losing control. The experience is so severe that it can lead to ongoing fear of having another attack, causing avoidance of certain situations or places.

Common symptoms include:

  • Rapid heart rate or palpitations
  • Shortness of breath or a choking sensation
  • Chest pain or discomfort
  • Sweating and trembling
  • Dizziness or feeling faint
  • Nausea or stomach discomfort
  • Fear of dying or feeling detached from reality

These symptoms can last anywhere from a few minutes to half an hour, but the emotional impact often lingers far longer.

What Causes Panic Attacks?

The exact cause of panic attacks isn’t always clear, but there are several factors that can contribute to their occurrence:

  • Stress and anxiety: Ongoing stress in your personal or professional life can heighten your risk.
  • Genetics: A family history of panic disorders may increase your likelihood of experiencing them.
  • Medical conditions: Thyroid issues, heart problems, or other medical conditions may trigger symptoms similar to panic attacks.
  • Life transitions: Major life changes—such as moving, starting a new job, or losing a loved one—can increase vulnerability.
  • Substance use: Excessive caffeine, drug use, or withdrawal from medications can also contribute.

How Can Panic Attacks Be Treated?

At Greater Heights Holistic Psychiatry, we approach panic disorders with both medical expertise and empathetic understanding. Treatment is tailored to your unique needs and may include:

  1. Holistic Approaches:
    a. Our clinic offers a holistic model of care that goes beyond just treating the symptoms. We focus on lifestyle changes, including nutrition, sleep hygiene, and exercise, to support overall mental health.
    b. We offer Education and resources for Stress management including yoga, meditation, breathing exercises, and other relaxation methods. This helps us to empower you to take control of your panic attack for a very long time.
  2. Therapy:
    At Greater Heights Holistic Psychiatry, we collaborate intensively with the best of the best therapists and counselors to provide empathic patient care. Some of the recommended interventions to control and manage panic disorder include-
    a. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is one of the most effective forms of treatment for panic attacks according to several research studies. CBT helps individuals identify negative thought patterns that trigger their anxiety and replace them with healthier ways of thinking.
    b. Mindfulness and relaxation techniques can also be incorporated to help individuals manage stress and reduce the frequency and intensity of attacks.
  3. Medication:
    Greater Heights Holistic Psychiatry believes that not everyone who suffers from Panic attacks and panic disorder ALWAYS needs medications. At our clinic, depending on the severity and frequency of your panic attacks, medications such as antidepressants or anti-anxiety medications may be prescribed to help regulate brain chemistry and provide relief. Our approach for medication management is very conservative and involves as little medication as possible for the shortest duration possible. We try to avoid any habit-forming medication and educate our patient about proper use of the medication.

Why Choose Greater Heights Holistic Psychiatry?

At Greater Heights Holistic Psychiatry, we are committed to helping our patients reclaim control over their lives by providing compassionate, affordable, and personalized care. Dr. Dharmendra Kumar and our team of experienced mental health professionals understand the profound impact that panic attacks can have on your daily life.

We believe in a holistic approach that addresses the mind and body, helping you not only manage your symptoms but also achieve lasting emotional healing. Our clinic offers a welcoming, calming environment where you can feel safe discussing your concerns and exploring treatment options.

Take the Next Step Toward Healing

If panic attacks are interfering with your life, don’t wait to seek help. At Greater Heights Holistic Psychiatry, we’re here to support you every step of the way. Contact our Houston office today to schedule a consultation and begin your journey toward mental well-being.

Useful Resources

Dr. Dharmendra Kumar