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FINDING HELP FOR PANIC DISORDER
Often the person with panic disorder must undertake a strenuous
search to find a therapist who is familiar with the most
effective treatments for the condition. A list of places to
start follows. The Anxiety Disorders Association of America can
provide a list of professionals in your area who specialize in the
treatment of panic disorder and other anxiety disorders.
Self-help and support groups are the least
expensive approach to managing panic disorder, and are helpful
for some people. A group of about 5 to 10 people meet weekly and
share their experiences, encouraging each other to venture into
feared situations and cope effectively with panic attacks. Group
members are in charge of the sessions. Often family members are
invited to attend these groups, and at times a therapist or other
panic disorder expert may be brought in to share insights with
group members. Information on self-help groups in specific areas
of the country can be obtained from the Anxiety Disorders
Association of America.
Sources of Referral to Professional Help for Panic Disorder.
Here are the types of people and places that will make a referral to, or provide, diagnostic and treatment services for a person with symptoms resembling those described in this brochure. Also check the Yellow Pages under “mental health,” “health,” “anxiety,” “suicide prevention,” “hospitals,” “physicians,” “psychiatrists,” “psychologists,” or “social workers” for phone numbers and addresses.
- Family doctors
- Clergy
- Mental health specialists, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, social workers, or mental health counselors
- Health maintenance organizations
- Community mental health centers
- Hospital psychiatry departments and outpatient clinics
- University- or medical school-affiliated treatment or research programs
- State hospital outpatient clinics
- Family service/social agencies
- Private clinics and facilities
- Employee assistance programs
- Local medical, psychiatric, or psychological societies
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