Looking Beyond the Symptoms

In Positive Psychotherapy, we see panic attacks not as the problem itself, but as a message from a nervous system that has been carrying too much for too long.

Rather than only learning how to stop panic, we work together to understand what your anxiety is trying to protect you from, helping you regain a sense of safety, confidence and balance.

Even though panic attacks can feel frightening, they are not a sign that you are losing control. They are your nervous system sounding an alarm that feels real, even when there is no immediate danger.

How Panic Attacks May Show Up

A panic attack can feel as though something terrible is happening, even when there is no immediate danger. It often arrives suddenly, leaving you feeling frightened, confused and out of control.

You may experience:

• A racing or pounding heart

• Shortness of breath or the feeling that you cannot get enough air

• Chest tightness or discomfort

• Dizziness, light-headedness or feeling faint

• Sweating, trembling or shaking

• Tingling or numbness in your hands, feet or face

• A feeling that you are losing control, "going crazy" or about to die

• Fear that another panic attack could happen at any moment

Over time, many people begin avoiding places or situations where they fear another attack might occur. This can gradually affect work, relationships, travel and everyday life.

How Therapy Can Help

Therapy is not only about reducing panic attacks. It is about understanding what lies beneath them and helping you feel safe again—both in your mind and in your body.

Together we can:

• Understand the emotional and psychological factors that contribute to panic attacks.

• Recognise the patterns that keep the cycle of panic going.

• Learn effective strategies to manage anxiety and regain a sense of control.

• Reduce the fear of future panic attacks and rebuild confidence in everyday situations.

• Restore emotional balance and reconnect with your inner strengths.

• Develop healthier ways of responding to stress and life's challenges.

Healing does not mean that fear disappears completely. It means learning that fear no longer controls your life.

A panic attack can feel overwhelming, but it is not dangerous.

Your heart races. Your breathing changes. Your body feels as though something terrible is happening.

What Are Panic Attacks?

Panic attacks are sudden episodes of intense fear or overwhelming discomfort that can arise unexpectedly, sometimes without any obvious danger. They often reach their highest intensity within a few minutes and may include physical sensations such as a racing heartbeat, shortness of breath, chest discomfort, dizziness, trembling, sweating or nausea, together with fears of losing control, fainting or dying.

Although panic attacks can feel frightening and physically dangerous, they are not usually life-threatening. When they occur repeatedly and lead to ongoing worry or avoidance, they may be associated with Panic Disorder.

50-minute individual session • Online or In Person (Nafplio & Mani)

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know if I am having a panic attack and not a heart attack?

Panic attacks can cause intense physical symptoms such as chest pain, a racing heart, dizziness and shortness of breath, which can feel similar to a heart attack. If symptoms are new, severe or you are unsure of the cause, it is important to seek immediate medical assessment. Once medical causes have been ruled out, therapy can help you understand and manage panic attacks.

Can panic attacks happen without warning?

Yes. Panic attacks can occur unexpectedly, even during calm moments or sleep. Some people also experience panic attacks in response to specific situations or triggers.

Are panic attacks dangerous?

Although panic attacks can feel frightening, they are not usually physically dangerous. The symptoms are the body's intense stress response and typically subside within a short period of time.

Can therapy help stop panic attacks?

Yes. Therapy can help you understand the factors contributing to panic attacks, reduce fear of the symptoms and develop effective coping strategies, making panic attacks less frequent and less distressing over time.

Do I need medication for panic attacks?

Not always. Many people benefit from psychotherapy alone, while others may benefit from a combination of therapy and medication, depending on the severity of their symptoms and individual needs.

Can I recover from panic attacks?

Yes. With appropriate support and treatment, most people learn to manage panic attacks effectively and regain confidence in their daily lives. Recovery is possible, and many people return to living full and meaningful lives.