Psychological Causes Of Panic Disorder
In a three-month study of 57 people with Panic Disorder, Sheehan et al found that 68% of participants had trouble falling asleep and 77% had trouble staying asleep (Sheehan et al, 1980, p. 53). Sleep disturbances related to Panic Disorder are often treated with SSRI’s, TCA’s, BZD’s, and MAOI’s. Some patients with Panic Disorder experience panic attacks during sleep, or nocturnal panic. It is suggested by some psychologists that nocturnal panic is caused by a fear of letting one’s guard down as happens when falling asleep. Cognitive-behavioral therapy is recommended in addition to medication for those with nocturnal panic (Staner, 2003, p.