Understanding Panic Disorder: Is it Considered a Disability?
Understanding Panic Disorder: Is it Considered a Disability? Introduction: Panic disorder is a mental health condition characterized by recurrent, unexpected panic attacks. These attacks can be debilitating, causing intense fear and physical symptoms such as rapid heartbeat, sweating, trembling, and shortness of breath. While panic disorder significantly impacts an individual's daily life, the question arises: Is panic disorder a disability? Defining Panic Disorder: Panic disorder is classified as an anxiety disorder in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5). It involves experiencing recurrent panic attacks, which are sudden episodes of intense fear or discomfort that peak within minutes. Panic attacks can occur unexpectedly or in response to specific triggers and may lead to a fear of future attacks, resulting in changes in behavior to avoid situations that could precipitate an attack. Social Impairment and Functional Limitati
