Panic Disorder is when someone experiences unexpected panic attacks followed by at least one month of persistent concern about having another panic attack, worrying about the possible consequences of the panic attacks, or a behavioral change related to the attacks (Millon, 1996, p.559). Panic Disorder is not a disease. It may be assessed, but not definitively diagnosed. This disorder is distressing and disabling, physically, psychologically, and socially (Harvard, 2000, p.1).

One symptom of Panic Disorder is unexpected panic attacks. At least two panic attacks are required for diagnosis. Attacks may last from several seconds to several minutes. Doctors believe that every attack has a situational trigger and an essential feature (Morrison, 1995, p.402). Another symptom of the disorder is constant concern and worry. The most common trait found in all Panic Disorder patients is a fear of being embarrassed. When a person takes an attack once they are paranoid for up to three months

Of course, with every disorder or disease, there comes consequences. People suffering from Panic Disorder usually have trouble with their social and marital relationships. It gives a person poor physical, as well as mental health. If a person suffering with panic attacks use alcohol or if they are taking drugs it can lead to an increased risk of suicide attempts (Grewal, 1992, p.57).

There are certain people effected by Panic Disorder because some factors create susceptibility to Panic Disorder. In many cases Panic Disorder is hereditary. The risk for other members in the same family is anywhere from ten to twenty percent. Identical twins have a high risk of getting Panic Disorder Thirty percent of Identical twins are diagnosed with it. Sarah's Mother suffers with Panic Disorder, and also has an identical twin (Harvard, 1996, p.1).

Sarah, also experienced severe anxiety in social situations. She had a terrible fear of having another attack, fear of losing consciousness, and a fear of embarrassment in social situations. Sarah had suffered in her sleep as well. Constant nightmares persisted, causing lack of sufficient sleep. Sarah felt she was going crazy, because of the fact that she didn't know what was wrong with her.

There are different types of treatments such as cognitive behavioral therapy. CBT teaches patients how to manage their anxiety and how not to think of anxiety-provoking thoughts. Cognitive behavioral therapy usually takes three to six weeks to work. Panic sufferers can also use a therapy known as exposure therapy, which teaches a person that he or she can control their symptoms. First, the therapist puts symptoms of a panic attack in an office setting. Then he coaches the patient in methods of cognitive-behavioral therapy. Behavioral therapy is meant to help patients confront fearful situatio

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