Don’t Panic – Free Help for Panic Disorder!

Panic Awareness Day – July 10th


“I can’t breathe! My chest hurts, my fingers tingle and my vision is blurred – What’s wrong with me?”


12 years ago, Peter from Siyabuswa called SADAG in a panic. He desperately needed help for severe panic associated particularly with taxis. His fear and panic almost caused him to lose his job. He now runs a highly successful Support Group for fellow panic sufferers in Siyabuswa. “I would not have got through this if it wasn’t for SADAG. I have gained confidence in myself and have learned how to cope. I won’t let panic get the better of me.”

Panic Attacks are frightening and unpleasant, but not in any sense dangerous. Panic attacks are reactions that occur out of the blue for no reason. When we feel our survival is somehow threatened – like walking down the street and being confronted with a mugger - we have an instinctive response to either fight or flee. This response produces a sudden surge of adrenaline, accompanied by strong feelings of anxiety and panic. This reaction could save our lives - if we were truly in danger…

This "awareness" of the perceived danger may cause all sorts of feelings, such as dizziness, nausea, shortness of breath, heart palpitations, confusion, lack of control, unreality, shaking and trembling, and sweaty palms. That you may have panic attacks without knowing why only makes the situation much more frightening. Zane Wilson founded the South African Depression and Anxiety Group 14 years ago to help people get support for their panic, and to educate sufferers about the disorder. “Panic attacks are truly terrifying and when I was diagnosed there was nowhere to turn for support and guidance. That is why I started the Group – panic sufferers need support and understanding – that they are not going mad and they are not going to die.”

The South African Depression and Anxiety Group (SADAG) marks the 10th of July as a nation-wide awareness day to make people aware that Panic Disorder is a real illness and treatment is easily available. 4% of the population suffer from Panic Disorder – yet very few receive the help they need. The disorder most often begins during the late teens and early adulthood and strikes twice as many women as men. No one knows what causes panic disorder, though researchers suspect a combination of factors, including a family history (panic disorder seems to run in families), stressful life events, or drug and alcohol abuse - up to 30% of people with panic abuse alcohol. Caffeine, some cold and flu medicines, some anti-malaria prescriptions, appetite suppressants and local anaesthetics may trigger a panic attack.

Although the thoughts and feelings of anxiety and panic are all too real, the brain has tricked you into thinking that you are somehow in danger -- when actually you are not. Part of effective therapy includes changing thought patterns. Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) has been shown to be the most effective therapy when dealing with anxiety. CBT focuses on making the present manageable so that the future can become anxiety-free.

Panic Disorder is successfully treated in the vast majority of cases. Active cognitive-behavioural therapy plus a strong motivation and persistence on the part of the client are the essential ingredients in overcoming this major anxiety disorder. Some panic patients may need medication to assist this process in the beginning. Medication – anti-anxiolitics or anti-depressants – are safe and effective whilst you are getting therapy. Often once the patient knows it is a real illness with a name and treatment available they are swiftly on the way to wellness.

SADAG has an active referral list of psychologists, psychiatrists, free brochures and handouts as well as nation-wide support group numbers that may help sufferers and their families understand the illness and its treatment. SADAG’s lines – 011 262 6396 or 0800 078 377– are open 7 days a week from 8am to 8pm. Dr Colinde Linda, a renowned Johannesburg-based CBT therapist who specialises in Panic Disorder, says, “Panic is highly treatable – 90% recover fully”.

Says Peter Matlalela, “I am now strong enough to run a Support Group in Siyabuswa and help other people with this illness. I have been well for for over 12 years now.”

Common physical symptoms associated with anxiety disorders include:



Muscle tension
Stomach upsets
Fatigue
Sleep problems
Headaches
Dizziness
Quickening of the heart rate
Palpitations
Nausea
Hot or cold flashes
Numbness or tingling in the hands and feet
Shortness of breath
Feeling of an out of body experience or being off-balance

First Aid for Panic

o Take a “time out” and slow down. Slow your breathing, slow your racing thoughts.

o Focus on the present, concentrate on an object around you – notice every detail: what does it look like, what does it smell like, what does it feel like…

o Count backwards from 20.

o Take a deep breath and hold it as long as you can.

o Remind yourself that panic attacks always end. ALWAYS.

o Stretch your body – head to toe.

o Remind yourself that panic attacks are not dangerous.

o If there is somewhere you can walk, take a walk. Talk to someone if there’s somebody around.

o Recall a time you handled a similar situation well or think about a time when you felt positive.

o Get angry. Vow not to let panic win. You deserve better.

Ends: For Further Information Contact: SADAG 011 262 6396


Cassey Amoore 011 262 6396 / 082 835 7650 or Janine Shamos 082 338 9666