Panic attacks can be triggered by a variety of factors, including:
- Overbreathing
- Long periods of stress
- Activities that lead to intense physical reactions (e.g. exercise, excessive coffee drinking)
- Physical changes occurring after illness or a sudden change of environment
- Genetics
- Major stress
- Temperament that is more sensitive to stress or prone to negative emotions
- Certain changes in the way parts of your brain function
- Phobias
- Lack of assertiveness
- Chronic stress
- Low self-esteem
- An existing mental health condition such as anxiety, depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- Exposure to a phobic object or situation
Its important to note that panic attacks can occur without any apparent trigger. Identifying triggers that bring on panic attacks can help individuals with panic disorder reduce their symptoms and feel better. Panic attacks can be treated with a range of therapies including medications, psychotherapy, stress management, and relaxation techniques.
