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Treating comorbid panic disorder in veterans with posttraumatic stress disorder
Ellen J Teng1, Sara D Bailey, Angelic D Chaison
1Michael E. DeBakey Veterans Affairs Medical Center and Menninger Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas 77030, USA. Ellen.Teng@va.gov
Journal of Consulting and Clinical Psychology
|July 31, 2008
Summary
Panic control treatment (PCT) significantly reduced panic symptoms in veterans with PTSD. PCT was more effective than supportive treatment, leading to more panic-free participants at follow-up.
Area of Science:
- Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences
- Clinical Psychology
- Trauma Studies
Background:
- Panic disorder frequently co-occurs with chronic posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
- Effective treatments for panic disorder in this complex patient population are needed.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare the effectiveness of panic control treatment (PCT) versus psychoeducational supportive treatment (PE-SUP) for panic disorder in veterans with chronic PTSD.
Main Methods:
- Thirty-five veterans with PTSD and panic disorder were randomized to 10 sessions of either PCT or PE-SUP.
- Assessments were conducted at pretreatment, 1-week posttreatment, and 3-month follow-up.
- Intent-to-treat analyses of covariance were used.
Main Results:
- PCT significantly reduced panic severity and fear compared to PE-SUP.
- The PCT group showed greater reductions in anxiety sensitivity.
- A significantly higher percentage of PCT participants (63%) were panic-free at follow-up versus PE-SUP (19%).
Conclusions:
- Panic control treatment is superior to psychoeducational supportive treatment for panic disorder in veterans with chronic PTSD.
- Brief cognitive-behavioral therapy for panic is effective in this population.
- PCT effectively reduces panic frequency, severity, and associated distress without negatively impacting general anxiety, depression, or PTSD symptoms.
Related Concept Videos
01:27Post-traumatic Stress Disorder
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a psychiatric condition that arises following exposure to traumatic events such as natural disasters, forced displacement, or severe accidents. It significantly impairs individuals' ability to cope with daily activities and disrupts their emotional and psychological equilibrium.
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01:27Panic Disorder
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01:24Treatment Strategies for Psychological Disorders
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