Often, it is mistaken for heart disease, thyroid problems, respiratory disease or hypochondria. Recent research has shown that the roots of panic disorder are both physical and psychological. The most successful treatment approach for panic disorder combines medication with cognitive and behavior therapy. In particular, medications, such as antidepressants and benzodiazepines, have proven effective for 75 to 90 percent of sufferers. Phobias Treatment usually involves desensitization or exposure therapy through which the sufferer is exposed to the source of the phobia and gradually learns to overcome the fear.
Exposure therapy can significantly reduce or end phobic reactions for at least seven years.
Therapy is often combined with medication, such as antianxiety drugs, antidepressants and, in some cases, tranquilizers. OCD Behavior therapy is used to expose individuals to situations that provoke their compulsions and help them learn how to decrease and eventually refrain from performing the rituals. Because OCD may be accompanied by depression, it is important to identify whether this illness is present and treat it concurrently. For some individuals medications, such as chlomipramine or fluoxetine, are effective in alleviating obsessions. PTSD Post-traumatic stress disorder can be successfully treated.