Teen Panic Attacks » Sue Scheff Blog

Sue Scheff: Teen Panic Attacks and Social Phobias

by Sue Scheff on Jul 30, 2010

We hear of many adults that suffer from panic attacks, but especially as school is opening, many teenagers may also be struggling with this disorder.

What is Panic Disorder in children and teens?

Children and teens with Panic Disorder experience unexpected and repeated panic attacks. This is typically followed by at least one month of concern about having additional attacks and/or a fear of something bad happening because of the panic attack (such as going crazy, losing control, or dying).

Panic attacks are very real. Many teens are anxious and worried about how they fit in this school year, or where will they fit in. Social phobia’s are a type of anxiety disorder that could lead to panic attacks. People with social phobia can usually interact easily with family and a few close friends. But meeting new people and especially starting a new school year can be difficult emotionally.

What are the symptoms of a panic disorder?

Symptoms of a panic attack, which often last about 10 minutes, include:

* Difficulty breathing.
* Pounding heart or chest pain.
* Intense feeling of terror.
* Sensation of choking or smothering.
* Dizziness or feeling faint.
* Trembling or shaking.
* Sweating
* Nausea or stomachache.
* Tingling or numbness in the fingers and toes.
* Chills or hot flashes.
* A fear that you are losing control or are about to die.

How Can Teens Cope with Anxiety?

Many teens find ways to cope with the high anxiety they feel. It’s important to recognize your emotions, to know what you’re feeling and why you’re feeling that way. Recognizing the types of situations that cause your anxiety is helpful as well.

Sometimes just admitting that a situation is stressful and being prepared to deal with it can reduce your anxiety. If you try these simple measures and still have too much anxiety, getting treatment from a health care professional or therapist is the next step.

Sources: WebMD, Aniexty BC, KidsHealth

Be an educated parent, you will have healthier teens.