Panic Disorder

In this chapter, the authors provide an overview of panic disorder. The chapter opens with a summary of the diagnostic features of panic disorder, its epidemiology and course, as well as the economic burden associated with this condition. Next, the authors provide an overview of current treatment guidelines for panic disorder. This is followed by a review of conceptual models of panic attacks and panic disorder. The components of cognitive behavioral treatment for panic disorder are described. The authors review research on the efficacy of cognitive behavioral treatment (including its individual components) and discuss the empirical status of other treatments (psychodynamic psychotherapy, exercise, and alternative treatments).