FAQ

1.Why do I have this?

The truth is, no one really has all the answers. Genetics look more and more to be a factor as research in that area is continuing. Whether we carry a genetic factor that is later triggered by an event or something in our childhood or experience a tramatic event, or go through an ongoing stressful episode...something sets it off. Its likely that there is more than one cause involved.


2. I was told its a chemical imbalance, what does that mean?



This is a non-answer in many ways. The most current research is that its caused by an imbalance of serotonin in the brain...again, this may well be just one possible explanation. Everything that happens in our body is the result of chemical changes of one type or another, whether its a physical reaction or a mental one. Its comforting to us to be told its a chemical imbalance because of the stereotypical ideas we have about mental illness. But its no more helpful than knowing we have a virus.

3. I am scared of the medications and just cannot make myself take them what do I do, I need some relief?


Many people have medication phobias and particularly with some of the psychotrophic medications that have so many side effects. A phobia though, is an unrealistic fear and its something that can be addressed like any other fear. Your doctor can help you with some of these fears and friends who have been able to overcome their fear of medication can as well.


4.What makes your group better than the other?

There are many excellent groups online and ours is just one of them. Of course, we feel we have something special to offer or we would not be here. We believe that when you have anxiety disorders, it effects every area of your life so we do not restrict support just to anxiety issues but to your relationships, your work, your family, your spiritual needs. We try to see the whole person and not just the disorder. We have an excellent, supportive staff of volunteers that are committed to helping not only themselves, but others. None of us are professionals or pretend to have all the answers...we are just people like you 5. Will this ever go away?



The best answer we can give you is that often our disorders do go into a sort of remission. There is not a "cure" so to speak...but there are many ways to acheive peace with the disorder so that it does not stop you from having a full and happy life. Therapy, self-help, learning to counter your anxious thoughts, keeping a good attitude, using humor, learning relaxation techniques, changing your lifestyle, medication when needed, a good support system and group support are among the tools that can make a world of difference.


6. Do I have to take medication in order to deal with this?

No, you do not. Some people are able to learn techniques to combat panic and anxiety without medications through therapy and/or a cognitive behavior program designed to teach you the tools and skills. What medication can do is treat the symptoms or regulate the serotonin levels so that you are more able to focus on working with your attacks. The most reliable and positive results continue to come from a combination of both medication and cognitive behavioral therapy.

7. What can joining a group do to help me?
One of the first reactions most people have to experiencing panic or anxiety is feeling like no one else in the world feels like they do. Discovering that others go through many of the same feelings and thoughts as you do can erase the feeling of isolation and lonliness. Reaching out and supporting others helps us to get outside of our own selves as well. More important, working and visiting with others can help you to learn how to put your tools into practice. The number one thing a group provides is friendship and a feeling of community with others who understand what you are going through.






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PAC is not a substitute for a doctor or therapy. If you're feeling suicidal please contact your doctor or local crisis team right away.