Panic Attacks and the Fear of Unknown in a Pandemic: Symptoms and Treatment

With coronavirus pandemic unfolding all over the world early this year, people saw crisis and uncertainty gripping much of their lives in the most unexpected ways. Anxiety about COVID-19 According to a study published in the online medical journal Jama Network, a rise in online searches about panic attacks and anxiety occurred for about two months following US President Donald Trump’s declaration of national emergency in regards to the COVID-19 pandemic, on March 13. Panic attacks are described as a sudden and intense feeling of fear, often accompanied by nausea, palpitation, chest pain, sweating, chills and dizziness among other discomforts. Treatment for Panic attacks People experiencing panic attacks should seek treatment immediately as such patients may be depressed, might be substance abusers and might entertain thoughts of suicide. A study published in BMC Psychiatry online journal notes that as per research based on data from the National Institute of Mental Health Epidemiologic Catchment Area, about 47% of patients suffering from panic disorder have suicidal thoughts throughout life.