The Amygdala and Panic Attacks
How are panic attacks and the amygdala related?
Panic attacks and panic disorder are created by a subconscious reaction which originates in the part of the brain responsible for storing and actuating the anxiety response, the amygdala.
The anxiety and panic response is a 'pre-programmed' response which is present from birth. The level of 'normal' anxiety is pre-set genetically but can be modified through behaviour. These behavioral modifications happen when the amygdala becomes 're-calibrated' at a higher than normal benchmark level.
This raises the general level of anxiety and in turn also affects the level of anxiety experienced in 'emergency' or perceived dangerous situations, which is controlled by the amygdala. This extreme level of anxiety can give rise to panic attacks.
Can medication help reduce panic attacks?
The amygdala, like all areas of the brain, can be affected by medication, however, there is no clear evidence to suggest that medication can eliminate panic attacks by addressing the amygdala directly. Panic attacks medication is usually an antidepressant or a sedative and whilst these have therapeutic value in some conditions, the amygdala and panic attacks will not be therapeutically treated.
The amygdala produces panic attacks because of learned behavior. By targeting the brain's ability to learn new behaviours directly, scientists such as Watson and Skinner have shown that distinct and powerful changes can happen which affect the anxious response originating in the amygdala.
What does this mean to panic attacks sufferers?
In a nutshell, this means that panic attacks, which originate in the amygdala, can only be eliminated using behavioral methods, reassurance, support and vigilant reconditioning of the amygdala's anxious response.
Panic attacks are the extreme manifestation of anxiety - anxiety itself can be reduced and eliminated by addressing the amygdala directly.