Fear is a natural reaction to a threatening situation and is where the body produces adrenaline in preparation for ?fight or flight?. Panic on the other hand is a sudden, unreasonable and overpowering fear. One out of every 75 people will experience recurring panic attacks, where the body produces adrenaline in response to a stimulus which is disproportionate to the actual threat in reality. Often, panic attacks appear seemingly with no cause.

If these panic attacks are not treated properly, Panic Disorder can occur. This is where a person experiences several panic attacks and worries excessively about the possibility that they have another one at any time. The person's worry is so strong that they change their behaviors to avoid situation that may provoke their anxiety. Fortunately, there are various treatments that are effective at treating panic attacks and related problems.

The Most Popular Panic Attack Treatments

Typically, an expert in panic attacks would first try to first rule out any underlying or medical conditions that may be contributing to the panic attacks or may actually be causing the symptoms themselves.

Sleep, Diet and Lifestyle Changes

Many people find that high caffeine intake, smoking, lack of sleep, inactivity and poor nutrition can be significant factors in their panic attacks. Therefore, increasing exercise and making dietary changes may be effective in reducing panic attacks for some people. Adding 20 to 30 minutes of exercise a day can help the body to relax by increasing the body release of feel good chemicals and make for a better night sleep.

Cognitive Distraction Techniques

Cognitive distraction such as mediation, yoga or listening to music can be help a person to relax and focus their mind on other things besides their anxiety. When the mind is inactive it can wander and focus on panicky feelings.

Reducing Anxiety Lifestyle Causes

Other lifestyle changes may need to take place. For example, if a person's job is a source of major stress they may need to seek a change in employment.

Psychological Treatment Modalities

There are many medication-free psychological treatments that can be very effective in treating panic attacks. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is the treatment of choice for most psychologists. CBT teaches patients to modify their thinking and behaviors change the thoughts which are the source of their anxieties and on to more positive thought trails. CBT practitioners also utilize exposure therapy, where the patient is exposed to specific fear producing situations ? low-fear situations first then gradually more fearful ones.

Another type of therapy involves support groups which many people find beneficial. People can share their experiences and find support with others who are in similar situations as them.

Programs from Former Panic Attack Sufferers

There are several home-based programs from former suffers of panic attacks which are available. These former sufferers have failed with traditional treatments and found their own ways to overcome panic attacks without medication. These programs are usually in the form of audio or video, and people can incorporate the techniques into their daily lives easily.