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 for a health problem.
What is 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.
Get help right away if you are thinking of hurting or killing yourself! —
Sometimes, people with panic disorder think of hurting or killing themselves. If you ever feel like you might hurt yourself or someone else, help is available:
●In the US, contact the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline:
•To speak to someone, call or text 988.
•To talk to someone online, go to chat.988lifeline.org.
●Call your doctor or nurse, and tell them it is an emergency.
●Call for an ambulance (in the US and Canada, call 9-1-1).
●Go to the emergency department at the nearest hospital.
How do I care for myself at home? —
Ask the doctor or nurse what you should do when you go home. Make sure that 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:
●Follow your treatment plan. This might include:
•Counseling – This can teach you ways to cope with panic attacks. You might meet with a therapist in person or online.
•Medicines – Take your medicines exactly as instructed, even if you are feeling better.
●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 handle stress.
•Try to get at least 8 hours of sleep every night.
What follow-up care do I need? —
Your doctor or nurse will want to see you regularly. It's important to go to these appointments.
When should I call the doctor? —
Call for emergency help right away (in the US and Canada, call 9-1-1) if you have thoughts of hurting yourself or someone else.
Call your doctor or nurse for advice if:
●You have another panic attack.
●You have new symptoms that worry you.
●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)
