Panic Disorder Treatment Specialist in Melbourne, FL
Panic Disorder is characterized by sudden, intense episodes of fear that trigger severe physical reactions without a real cause. Our team in Melbourne, FL, specializes in treating this disorder through a combination of cognitive-behavioral therapy and medication management. We aim to equip patients with the skills to manage symptoms effectively and reduce the frequency of panic attacks. For more information, please contact us or book an appointment online. We are conveniently located at 6300 North Wickham Road Suite 110 Melbourne, FL 32940.


Table of Contents:
How is panic disorder diagnosed?
Is panic disorder treatable?
Can panic disorder cause long-term health effects?
What’s the difference between a panic attack and an anxiety attack?
Panic disorders are a type of mental health disorder characterized by sudden and intense episodes of fear or discomfort and are often accompanied by physical symptoms such as rapid heart rate, shortness of breath, and dizziness. Without effective management, these episodes can significantly impact daily life and overall well-being. At Psychiatry of the Palm Beaches specialists provide comprehensive care through a tailored, multidisciplinary approach. By combining personalized treatment plans with a range of evidence-based strategies, the specialists provide individuals with the support needed to manage panic disorders and regain control over their lives.
Diagnosing panic disorder requires a detailed evaluation to ensure an accurate understanding of the condition and to differentiate it from other potential health issues. The process typically begins with a comprehensive clinical interview where mental health professionals examine the patient’s history of symptoms, such as the frequency and severity of panic attacks. They will work to identify any specific triggers or patterns associated with the episodes. To further refine the diagnosis, the evaluation often includes a review of the individual’s medical history to rule out physical conditions that might contribute to the symptoms, such as heart or thyroid problems.
Adhering to the diagnostic criteria outlined in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5), specialists will identify key characteristics of panic disorder, such as recurring unexpected panic attacks and a persistent fear of future episodes. The criteria also specify that the symptoms cannot be attributed to substance use or another medical or mental health condition. In some cases, the evaluation process includes additional diagnostic tests, such as blood work or electrocardiograms, to exclude medical explanations for symptoms like heart palpitations or shortness of breath, which are common in panic attacks.
Through this thorough assessment process, specialists at Psychiatry of the Palm Beaches aim to create a complete and personalized understanding of the patient’s condition. With these steps, the care team can develop a tailored treatment plan that addresses both the immediate symptoms and any contributing factors. This ensures that individuals struggling with panic disorder receive the most effective care to improve their overall quality of life and mental well-being.
Panic disorders are treatable with effective interventions available to help individuals manage and significantly reduce symptoms. Treatment typically begins with a comprehensive plan that includes psychotherapy, medication, and lifestyle adjustments. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is considered the gold standard in addressing panic disorder. This form of therapy focuses on identifying and modifying the thought patterns and behaviors that influence panic attacks. Through guided sessions, patients learn to confront their fears and develop strategies for managing episodes when they arise.
For some individuals, medication can help in managing the symptoms of panic disorder. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) or serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs) are commonly prescribed to regulate the brain’s chemistry and alleviate anxiety. In cases of acute panic symptoms, short-term use of benzodiazepines may be recommended under close medical supervision.
Combining medication with therapy often leads to the best outcomes, as medication helps manage immediate symptoms while therapy addresses underlying causes. With consistent treatment and support from mental health professionals, many patients experience long-term relief and an improved quality of life. At Psychiatry of the Palm Beaches, the goal is to provide compassionate, individualized care that empowers each patient to overcome the challenges of panic disorder and achieve lasting wellness.
When left untreated, panic disorder can contribute to several long-term health effects, impacting both physical and mental well-being. Repeated panic attacks are associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular issues, as the body’s stress response frequently elevates heart rate and blood pressure. Over time, this can lead to conditions such as hypertension or exacerbate existing heart problems. Persistent hyperventilation during panic attacks may also result in respiratory issues, while chronic anxiety can contribute to gastrointestinal disturbances, such as irritable bowel syndrome or acid reflux.
Untreated panic disorders are also capable of worsening other mental health challenges. It frequently coexists with other conditions, such as depression or generalized anxiety disorder, which can worsen without proper care. Individuals with panic disorder may also develop phobias or avoidant behaviors, severely restricting their daily activities and social interactions. This isolation can strain personal relationships and lead to a diminished quality of life.
Additionally, the constant fear of another panic attack may impair concentration and decision-making, potentially affecting work performance and overall cognitive function. The specialists at Psychiatry of the Palm Beaches focus on addressing panic disorder through a combination of therapy, medication, and holistic lifestyle approaches to mitigate these risks. By prioritizing comprehensive care, patients can reduce the likelihood of long-term health complications and regain control over their lives.
Although panic attacks and anxiety attacks have significant areas of overlap, they describe distinct experiences with different characteristics. A panic attack is typically sudden and intense, marked by overwhelming fear or a sense of impending doom that peaks within minutes. These episodes often occur without warning or a specific trigger and may include symptoms such as chest pain, shortness of breath, sweating, trembling, and dizziness. An anxiety attack tends to build gradually, often in response to a stressor and presents with symptoms like restlessness, excessive worry, muscle tension, and difficulty sleeping.
The duration and intensity of these events also set them apart. Panic attacks are usually brief but severe, with symptoms that can mimic those of a heart attack, leading individuals to seek emergency care. Anxiety attacks, however, may persist for longer periods, ranging from hours to days, and are generally less intense, although still disruptive to daily functioning. Another key difference lies in their triggers, while anxiety attacks are typically linked to specific concerns or anticipated events, panic attacks may occur without an identifiable cause, making them especially unpredictable and distressing.
Effective treatment approaches often address both panic and anxiety attacks, as they can coexist in some individuals. The specialists at Psychiatry of the Palm Beaches use tailored diagnostic and therapeutic techniques to identify the underlying causes and provide strategies for managing these episodes. By understanding the nuances between panic and anxiety attacks, patients can receive the appropriate care to improve their mental health and overall quality of life.
Panic disorder treatment is available at Psychiatry of the Palm Beaches. For more information, contact us today or book an appointment online. We serve patients from Vero Beach FL, Citrus Ridge FL, Jacksonville FL, Riverside FL, Boynton Beach FL, Delray Beach FL, Palm Beach Gardens FL, Jupiter FL, Stuart FL, Palm City FL, Royal Palm Beach FL, Wellington FL, Plantation FL, Sunrise FL, Port St. Lucie FL, Beau Rivage West FL, and Melbourne FL, Palm Bay FL, and surrounding areas.


Additional Services You May Need
▸ Mental Wellness
▸ Relationship Coaching
▸ Depression and Mood Disorders
▸ Women’s Health
▸ Panic Disorder
▸ Medications Management
▸ Men’s Health
▸ Individual Psychotherapy
▸ Bipolar
▸ ADHD
▸ Geriatric Mental Health
▸ Life Coaching
▸ Couple’s Counseling
▸ Obsessive Compulsive Disorder
▸ Social Phobia Treatment
▸ Eating Disorders
▸ Post Traumatic Stress Disorder
▸ Psychotic Disorders