What Clients with Panic Disorder Want Their Caregivers To Know

This study investigated the experiences and concerns of individuals diagnosed with panic disorder. It addressed the family's response to the panic individual's sudden burst of emotional and somatic symptoms. The help-seeking behaviors and caregiver's reaction to the panic individual's distress are reported. The study looked at the intensity of symptoms experienced and treatments employed, and stressors and coping strategies used. A focused ethnologic method was selected. Eleven individuals were interviewed at a location of their choice for 1 to 3 hours and were audiotaped and later transcribed. An interview guide was used but the questions were open ended. The participants were either self-referred or referred by others aware of the author's interest. Participants recalled the intensity and frequency of attacks. In many instances family members were not viewed as supportive. Participants suggested that caregivers become more sensitive to their plight and not demean their symptoms. Education was emphasized. Many felt that physicians and nurses were not capable or willing to assist them. For some, medication controlled the attacks. Others refused medication or did not take it as prescribed. Cognitive/behavioral approaches were used minimally. The stigma of mental illness was evident in the participants' disclosure of shame and embarrassment.