Understanding Anxiety and Panic Attacks: Expert Care from Your Limassol Psychiatrist

Anxiety and panic attacks are common yet distressing mental health challenges affecting many people worldwide. If you’ve ever experienced sudden episodes of overwhelming fear, racing heart, or feelings of losing control, you’re not alone. As a psychiatrist based in Limassol, Cyprus, I specialize in diagnosing and treating anxiety disorders, including panic attacks, with evidence-based methods tailored to your unique needs.

What Is Anxiety?
Anxiety is a natural response to stress, characterized by feelings of worry, nervousness, or fear. When anxiety becomes excessive or chronic, it may interfere with daily life and qualify as an anxiety disorder. Common types include generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), social anxiety disorder, and panic disorder.

What Are Panic Attacks?
Panic attacks are intense, sudden episodes of fear or discomfort that peak within minutes. Symptoms often include:

Rapid heartbeat (palpitations)

Shortness of breath or choking sensation

Chest pain or tightness

Dizziness or lightheadedness

Trembling or sweating

Nausea or abdominal discomfort

Feeling detached from reality or oneself

Fear of dying, losing control, or “going crazy”

Despite how frightening they feel, panic attacks are not life-threatening.

Why Do Panic Attacks Happen?
Panic attacks result from a complex interaction of brain function, neurochemistry, and psychological factors:

Brain circuits: The amygdala (fear center) may become hyperactive, sending false danger signals. The hypothalamus and brainstem then trigger the body’s fight-or-flight response.

Neurochemistry: Imbalances in neurotransmitters like serotonin, norepinephrine, and GABA can heighten anxiety and physical arousal.

Psychological factors: Catastrophic thinking—misinterpreting bodily sensations as signs of serious illness—can escalate panic symptoms.

Chronobiological influences: Disruptions in sleep and circadian rhythms may increase vulnerability to anxiety and panic.

How Anxiety and Panic Attacks Affect Your Life
Frequent panic attacks can lead to anticipatory anxiety—fear of future attacks—that impacts your social life, work, and overall well-being. Avoidance behaviors may develop, limiting your activities and independence.

Effective Treatments for Anxiety and Panic Attacks
As a Limassol psychiatrist, I employ a multidisciplinary, evidence-based approach:

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) or other psychological interventions.

CBT is the gold standard for treating panic and anxiety disorders. It helps you identify and challenge unhelpful thoughts and gradually face feared situations through exposure therapy.

Medication
Medications such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs), and, occasionally, benzodiazepines provide relief by balancing neurochemical activity.

Breathing and Relaxation Techniques
Learning to control breathing and physiological responses reduces panic symptoms and restores calm.

Mindfulness and Lifestyle Modifications
Incorporating mindfulness, regular exercise, healthy sleep patterns, and stress management supports long-term mental health.

Why Choose Professional Psychiatric Care in Limassol?
Living in Cyprus as a local or international resident, you deserve accessible, confidential, and personalized mental health care. My private clinic in Limassol offers comprehensive psychiatric evaluations and customized treatment plans combining therapy, medication, and supportive techniques.

Take the First Step Toward Recovery
If anxiety or panic attacks are disrupting your life, don’t wait. Professional help is available. Contact my Limassol clinic today to schedule a confidential consultation and start your journey toward mental wellness.