Version July 2025
Please read the Disclaimer at the end of this page.
What are discharge instructions? —
Discharge instructions are information about how to take care of yourself after getting medical care in the emergency department ("ED").
What should I know? —
You came to the ED after likely having a panic attack. This is an episode of extreme fear or worry. During a panic attack, you might also have physical symptoms like chest pain, trouble breathing, or a fast heartbeat.
When a person has repeated panic attacks, this is called "panic disorder." Panic disorder can be treated with therapy, medicines, or both.
You might need follow-up care to help manage your panic attacks.
How do I care for myself at home? —
Ask the doctor or nurse what you should do when you go home. Make sure you understand exactly what you need to do to care for yourself. Ask questions if there is anything you do not understand.
You should also do the following:
●Call your regular doctor and tell them you were in the ED. Make a follow-up appointment if you were told to.
●Take all your medicines as instructed.
●Make an appointment with a counselor or therapist to talk about your thoughts and feelings. They can help you understand and manage your panic attacks.
●Take care of yourself:
•Avoid alcohol and recreational drugs.
•Try to get regular physical activity or exercise. Even gentle forms of activity, like walking, are good for your health.
•Find healthy ways to handle stress, like talking to others or hobbies you enjoy. Relaxation exercises, meditation, and activities like yoga or tai chi can help you manage stress.
•Try to get at least 8 hours of sleep every night.
When should I get emergency help?
●Call for emergency help right away (in the US and Canada, call 9-1-1) if:
•You think you might harm yourself or someone else. In the US, you can contact the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline:
-To speak to someone, call or text 988.
-To talk to someone online, go to chat.988lifeline.org.
●Return to the ED if:
•You have any new or concerning physical symptoms, such as chest pain, trouble breathing, fast heartbeat, or severe belly pain.
When should I call the doctor? —
Call for advice if:
●You have another panic attack.
●You have other new or worsening symptoms.
●Your medicine is causing side effects.
Patient education: Panic disorder (The Basics)
Patient education: Generalized anxiety disorder (The Basics)
Patient education: Anxiety in children and teens (The Basics)
Patient education: Coping with worry and stress (The Basics)
