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Panic disorder: diagnosis, epidemiology, and clinical course
1Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston 77550, USA.
The Journal of Clinical Psychiatry
|January 1, 1996
Summary
Panic disorder is common and challenging to treat, often leading to chronic conditions and significant negative health outcomes. This review explores its development and severe psychological and clinical impacts.
Area of Science:
- Psychiatry
- Clinical Psychology
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Panic disorder is a prevalent anxiety disorder frequently encountered in diverse medical settings.
- It often co-occurs with mood disorders, substance abuse, and other anxiety conditions.
- Individuals with panic disorder exhibit poorer recovery rates and higher relapse frequencies compared to those with depression.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine the developmental pathways of panic disorder.
- To elucidate the multifaceted psychological and clinical consequences of panic disorder.
- To highlight the significant public health implications of this condition.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of existing research on panic disorder.
- Analysis of epidemiological data on prevalence and comorbidity.
- Synthesis of studies detailing psychological and clinical outcomes.
Main Results:
- Panic disorder is associated with significant functional impairments, including medical, emotional, occupational, and marital difficulties.
- Increased risks for alcohol abuse and higher emergency room utilization are noted.
- Rates of suicide attempts in panic disorder patients can reach 20%, surpassing those with depression.
Conclusions:
- Panic disorder presents a complex clinical challenge with a high burden of adverse outcomes.
- Effective management strategies are crucial to mitigate long-term psychological and physical health consequences.
- Further research into the development and treatment of panic disorder is warranted.