11 July - Health - Panic Disorder can be treated

In today’s show, we spoke to Cassey Chambers – from the South African Depression and Anxiety Group. She joined us to talk about Panic Disorders. Yesterday, it was Panic Disorder Awareness Day. According to experts, Panic Disorder is a serious condition that around one out of every 75 people might experience. It usually appears during the teens or early adulthood, and while the exact causes are unclear, there does seem to be a connection with major life transitions that are potentially stressful: graduating from college, getting married, having a first child, and so on. There is also some evidence for a genetic predisposition; if a family member has suffered from panic disorder, you have an increased risk of suffering from it yourself, especially during a time in your life that is particularly stressful but Cassey explained more. For more information on Panic Disorders contact the South African Depression and Anxiety Support Group (SADAG), they have a free 24 hour support line that is manned by counsellors on 0800 21 22 23 or (011) 262 6396 alternatively visit www.sadag.co.za