What are panic attacks?
Panic attacks cause people to have sudden and unexpected episodes of intense anxiety, as well as frightening physical symptoms such as chest pains and heart palpitations. Physical panic attack symptoms can be so severe that people who are having a panic attack for the first time may think they’re having a heart attack or a nervous breakdown.
At our Aspris Wellbeing Centres in Dubai and Abu Dhabi, we understand that without specialist treatment, panic attacks can happen more frequently. This can make people fear having a panic attack, resulting in what can feel like a ‘vicious circle’.
Our expert psychiatrists and psychologists know that panic attacks can be very scary and can make people want to withdraw from their family and friends and avoid going out. However, the good news is that panic disorders are treatable and you don’t have to struggle on your own.
Don’t suffer with panic attacks – it’s possible for you to make a full recovery
With expert psychiatric support, anxiety attacks and panic attacks can be treated and prevented, helping you regain control and take steps towards the happy, healthy and fulfilling life you deserve.
Our specialist psychiatrists and psychologists at our Aspris Wellbeing Centres in Dubai and Abu Dhabi specialize in panic attack treatment and therapy. We know that everyone experiences panic attacks differently, which is why we’re committed to providing bespoke treatment to each person we support. This means you’ll receive personalised panic attack therapy, helping you achieve the best possible outcomes.
Outpatient treatment for panic attacks in Dubai and Abu Dhabi
We can deliver flexible outpatient treatment for panic disorders in both Dubai and Abu Dhabi. Our aim is to help you to overcome your symptoms, and take steps towards recovery and wellbeing.
Outpatient treatment for panic attacks ensures:
- Flexible and convenient consulting hours, which fit in with your work and other commitments
- Fast access to high quality panic attack therapy
- Complete confidentiality and discretion
- Treatment from skilled experts
We can use lots of different methods to treat panic attacks. You’ll usually receive a combination of the following:
- Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) – CBT for panic disorder helps you to address and challenge the unhealthy thought patterns that are contributing to your panic attacks, before teaching you to process these thoughts in new and healthier ways
- Medication – some panic attack medication can be used as well as CBT to act as a further barrier against panic attacks
- 1:1 therapy for panic attacks – 1:1 therapy takes place between you and a qualified therapist, allowing you to explore your problems in a personalised and tailored way
- Group therapy for panic attacks – group therapy takes place in a group of other patients, who may also be struggling with panic attacks or other mental health issues. Group therapy allows you to share your experiences with others and receive support
- Family therapy for panic attacks – this type of therapy takes place in a group with your family and loved ones. It helps you have an honest conversation about your panic attacks and allows you to learn how best to support each other in the future
What are the signs and symptoms of panic attacks?
Panic attacks can cause a whole range of physical, psychological and behavioural symptoms.
Physical panic attack symptoms of panic attacks:
- Feeling dizzy, faint or light-headed
- Racing heart
- Chest pains and feeling like you’re struggling to breathe
- Hyperventilating
- Muscle spasms and palpitations
- Nausea
- Stomach ache
- Numbness and tingling
- Feeling very hot or very cold
- Trembling or shaking
- Changes in appetite
- Sleep problems
Psychological symptoms of panic attacks:
- A feeling of being out of control
- Worrying that you’re ‘going crazy’
- Constantly worrying about when your next panic attack will happen
- Being more tearful than usual
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Paranoia
- Low self-esteem
Behavioural symptoms of panic attacks:
- Reduced performance at work or school
- Not wanting to go out in public or socialise with friends and family, in case you have a panic attack
- Frequently going to your doctor or emergency department
- Struggling to cope in your daily life
What causes panic attacks?
As with most mental health conditions, there are a number of panic attack causes that can make it more likely you’ll go on to struggle with panic attacks. These include:
- An existing mental health problem such as anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), phobias, stress or obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD)
- Certain personality traits such as a lack of assertiveness
- Genetics – having a close relative who suffers from panic attacks
- Serious physical illnesses such as cancer
- Significant life changes, such as going through a bereavement or divorce
- Medication side effects
- Withdrawal from alcohol, drugs or prescription medication
- Consuming too much caffeine
What can I do to reduce panic attacks?
If you suffer from panic attacks, the most important step you can take is to reach out for professional help. However, there are a number of simple things you can do yourself to reduce your panic attacks symptoms. These include:
- Reduce the amount of caffeine and alcohol you’re consuming
- Avoid smoking
- Exercise regularly
- Try to get enough sleep – on average, adults need at least 8 hours of sleep per night
- Spend time with family and friends
- Practise relaxation techniques such as yoga
Help for panic attacks in Dubai and Abu Dhabi
Aspris have been treating panic attacks in the UAE since 2017. We offer expert help for panic attacks in Dubai and Abu Dhabi, at the following locations:
Panic attack treatment in Dubai
Aspris Wellbeing Centre Dubai
Dubai City Walk, Al Nuzha Street
Building 19
Panic attack treatment in Abu Dhabi
Aspris Wellbeing Centre Abu Dhabi
King Abdullah Bin Abdulaziz Al Saud Street
Al Bateen
Abu Dhabi
United Arab Emirates
Panic attacks can be debilitating and can reduce your quality of life. At Aspris, our specialist psychiatrists, psychologists and therapists will support you to understand and overcome your panic attacks, helping you get back on track. Call today to take the first steps towards recovery.
For further information call today on: (+971) 4 385 4493 (Dubai) / (+971) 2 651 8111 (Abu Dhabi) or submit an enquiry form in confidence. We will provide you with details on all our treatments and offer help on how to manage your mental health at a time that suits you.