Panic disorder/agoraphobia

Panic disorder/agoraphobia

What is a Panic disorder or agoraphobia?

Children and young people with panic disorder experience unexpected and repeated panic attacks without any clear reason. During a panic attack, someone may experience symptoms such as palpitations, sweating, dizziness, nausea, and the feeling that they are dying or losing control. The panic attacks are often so intense that they cause a fear of having another panic attack. This can cause someone to avoid certain situations or places. Some people even become afraid to go outside at all. This is also known as agoraphobia (fear of open spaces). Approximately 4-5% of the population will experience panic disorder at some point in their lives.