Query

Sometimes I get sudden anxious fits, and lately this has been getting worse. When I remember that I have work to do and have no time to waste, I panic and remain frozen for hours. What should I do? -P.R. 

Answered by Dr Rishav Koirala, Psychiatrist and Researcher

From what you have mentioned in your question, it sounds like you are having episodes of anxiety that escalate into panic attacks, which explains you not being able to move from one place for hours. But this alone does not give the entire picture of the problem. It is necessary to consider various factors that can contribute to these episodes. 

It is essential to ask, “What other symptoms do you have?”, “When do you get these episodes?”, “How often does this occur?”, “What are the triggering factors?”, “What is your coping mechanism?” etc. 

Figuring all of this out will require an evaluation of your mental state and of other factors that might have contributed to these issues. 

We can give you a proper diagnosis only after we figure out answers to these questions through a rigorous evaluation. It is always important to find out the root cause. 

Once we have the diagnosis, we can proceed towards possible solutions, be it in the form of medication or psychological therapy. In the end, I would like to assure you that there is a solution for whatever you are going through right now.

For the time being, I suggest that you avoid caffeine and alcohol, and maintain a strict sleep cycle as well as a healthy lifestyle. Taking these steps may help you to an extent.