How Does This All Add Up To A Panic Attack? (Psychology Tools For Overcoming Panic)

Psychology Tools for Overcoming Panic takes a cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) approach to this common anxiety problem. This chapter discusses the stages of a panic attack including triggers, interpretations and anxious predictions, the fight or flight response, further misinterpretation of body sensations, and the creation of a vicious circle of panic.

• Client handout – use as a psychoeducation and skills-development resource
• Discussion point – use to provoke a discussion and explore client beliefs
• Therapist learning tool – improve your familiarity with a psychological construct
• Teaching resource – use as a learning tool during training

• Barlow, D. H. (2004). Anxiety and its disorders: The nature and treatment of anxiety and panic. Guilford press.
• Clark, D. M. (1986). A cognitive approach to panic. Behaviour research and therapy, 24(4), 461-470.
• Clark, D. M. (1994). Cognitive therapy for panic disorder. American Psychiatric Association.