Most people have experienced a panic attack at least once in their lives. These events are highly emotional and they can be very stressful, especially for your elderly family members. Managing panic attacks is never easy, but if you know more about them and what can cause a panic attack, your loved ones will likely cope better.
Keep reading to find out more about panic attacks and other types of emotional problems that might burden some of your loved ones. If you are better informed, you can make better decisions for the benefit of your family members.
Post Traumatic Stress Disorder
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) commonly happens to people who have experienced excessive physical or psychological stress at some point in their lives. Various events act as triggers that revive these traumatic memories. A person with PTSD might experience symptoms such as a racing heart and tremors when these triggers occur. In many cases, victims of PTSD internalize their problems and try to withdraw from society to protect themselves.
Generalized Anxiety Disorder
Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) is another type of emotional problem that might be encountered by some of your family members. It manifests as chronic anxiety or a state of constant worry without a real reason. Generalized anxiety disorders might be caused by past traumatic events and it makes a person feel slightly scared of most things. This can result in isolation, self-harm, and general poor life quality. Talking with a loved one about this type of problem might be helpful. Discussing the traumatic events that cause GAD in the presence of a trained professional can also alleviate this type of emotional stress.
Social Anxiety Disorder
Social anxiety disorder is similar to GAD, but it usually occurs when in the presence of other people. The person diagnosed with a social anxiety disorder might have trouble making new friends or interacting with other people, even in safe circumstances. It is characterized as a constant state of worry and it might not go away on its own. Untreated, it might lead to self-isolation and withdrawal from society.
Panic Disorder
Panic disorders are also common among people of elderly age. It is characterized by a sudden fear or excessive worry related to an event that happens in the present. For example, a person might suddenly get scared of a heart attack if he or she is experiencing mild chest pains. Panic disorders can occur at any time and they might last for around 25-30 minutes, depending on their intensity and the nature of the fear. Talking about this type of disorder might bring relief to your loved ones and make them feel better.
Why Choose The Welstone At Mission Crossing?
At The Welstone At Mission Crossing, your loved one has everything they need to live out their golden years comfortably. The main focus of our services is to exceed residents’ expectations by providing excellent services. Find out more about The Welstone At Mission Crossing by contacting us or scheduling a tour today.