Panic Disorder: The Facts

Panic disorder is a remarkably common psychological condition, characterised by sudden attacks of intense fear and panic. Approximately 3% of the population will experience some signs of panic disorder during their lifetime. It is a very distressing condition, and if it persists, has an adverse effect on most aspects of the person's life.

This new edition of Panic Disorder: The Facts includes valuable new information on treatment and discusses the relationship between panic disorder and other anxiety conditions. It also assesses the evidence for the available treatments, drawing from the latest scientific research. Information on self-help has also been revised. Up-to-date information on the nature, symptoms, causes, theories and treatment of panic disorder is provided, an in non-technical language. The chapters on treatment give a detailed account of psychological therapy and also discuss drug treatment. A final chapter answers some commonly asked questions. Numerous personal accounts are given throughout the book, highlighting various aspects of panic disorder and its treatment.

Though mainly intended for sufferers of panic disorder, and their families and friends, it will also be of interest to the general reader, and to health care workers who have to deal with this problem.

Clearly written by two leading experts, the book will remain a valuable source of information for anyone affected by this disorder.

Stanley Rachman is in the Department of Psychology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada. Padmal de Silva is in the Department of Psychology, Institute of Psychology, London, UK.