A common misconception may be that only mentally vulnerable people may suffer extreme anxiety (e.g., anxiety attack). You may even think the least likely person to have anxiety or intense fear would be a superhero. Not only are they physically strong, they must be mentally strong?
Iron Man 3 seems to challenge these misconceptions of who may experience a panic attack or suffer undeniable instances of a significant mental disturbance. Interestingly, Tony asked Jarvis is it "the heart", something common when people first experience a panic attack, which may lead them to having thoughts of having a heart attack or even dying, that often leads to a visit to the ER of a hospital. Lastly, while Tony has wrapped himself in a suit of armor, he still possess the psychological make up of a human.
Panic disorder is a type of anxiety disorder characterized by recurrent and unexpected ("out of the blue") panic attacks. A panic attack is a sudden episode of intense fear (possibly anxiety) or discomfort that reaches its peak within minutes. Panic attacks can be very distressing and may lead individuals to avoid certain situations, places, even exercising, as the might think this may trigger a panic attack.
Key features of panic disorder included panic attacks. Panic attacks involve a sudden surge of intense anxiety / fear or discomfort, accompanied by physical and cognitive symptoms. Physical symptoms include a increased heart rate, sweating, trembling, shortness of breath, chest pain, nausea, dizziness, a feeling of being detached from reality. Cognitive symptoms may involve a fear of losing control, going crazy, or dying. Panic disorder often coexists with other anxiety disorders, depression, or other mental health conditions.
Individuals with an inherently anxious or nervous disposition may be more prone to developing panic disorder. This trait might involve a tendency to worry excessively, be highly sensitive to stress, or have a heightened awareness of bodily sensations. Certain cognitive styles, such as catastrophizing (expecting the worst possible outcome) or having a heightened fear of loss of control, contribute to panic disorder. Individuals who consistently interpret events in a negative and threatening manner may be at a higher risk.
There is evidence to suggest a genetic component to panic disorder. If individuals have close relatives (parents or siblings) with a history of panic disorder, they may be at a much higher risk. Traumatic or stressful life events can contribute to the development of panic disorder or trigger panic attacks in susceptible individuals. Noteworthy, traits are not deterministic, and individuals with these traits may or may not develop panic disorder. The interplay of genetic, biological, environmental, and psychological factors is complex.
Individuals with panic disorder often live in fear of experiencing another panic attack. This fear, known as anticipatory anxiety, can lead to significant changes in behavior, as individuals may avoid places or situations where they fear an attack might occur. To prevent panic attacks, individuals with panic disorder may start avoiding certain situations, such as crowded places, public transportation, or situations where they feel trapped and unable to escape. This avoidance can impact daily life and may lead to social isolation.
Panic disorder can significantly interfere with daily life, work, and relationships. The fear of having a panic attack may restrict an individual's activities and diminish their overall quality of life. If someone is experiencing symptoms suggestive of panic disorder or significant distress, it's crucial to seek professional help. A mental health professional can provide a thorough assessment, diagnosis, and appropriate treatment, which may include therapy, medication, or a combination of both.
Treatment options may include a combination of psychotherapy (such as cognitive-behavioral therapy), medications (such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors or benzodiazepines), and lifestyle changes. Seeking professional help is essential for an accurate diagnosis and the development of an effective treatment plan.
