Lifestyle Changes to Manage Panic Disorder

June 10, 2008 - 7:30am

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Lifestyle Changes to Manage Panic Disorder

In addition to medical treatment, the following lifestyle changes may help you manage the symptoms of panic disorder:

]]>Avoid caffeine.]]>
]]>Avoid alcohol.]]>
]]>Avoid drug use.]]>
]]>Get plenty of rest.]]>
]]>Schedule quiet time for yourself each day.]]>

Avoid Caffeine

Some people find that avoiding caffeine helps reduce panic attacks. Caffeine is commonly found in coffee, tea, chocolate, and some soft drinks.

For information on reducing your caffeine intake, click here]]> .

Avoid Alcohol

Alcohol]]> may exacerbate your feelings of ]]>anxiety]]>. Talk to your doctor if you need help reducing your alcohol intake or quitting drinking entirely.

Avoid Drug Use

Avoid drug use]]> unless prescribed or approved by your doctor. If you think you are addicted to illegal drugs or ]]>prescription]]> or nonprescription medications, ask your doctor for help overcoming dependence on these substances.

Get Plenty of Rest

Feeling well rested can help you to feel more relaxed.

For more information on getting a good night sleep, click here]]> .

Schedule Quiet Time for Yourself Each Day

Give yourself a little quiet time each day. This will help you release stress and feel more calm.

For more information on reducing stress, click here]]> .

References:

Panic disorder. National Institute of Mental Health website. Available at: http://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/publications/anxiety-disorders/panic-disorder.shtml. Updated January 23, 2009. Accessed March 25, 2009.

Last reviewed March 2009 by ]]>Rosalyn Carson-DeWitt, MD]]>

Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.