anxiety relapse
I am having a relapse of my panic attacks/ generalized anxiety disorder. I initially had symptoms 6 yrs ago which took 2 yrs to go away. My question is do relapses usually last as long as the first anxiety period?
Hi pms3,
The answer to your question depends on a number of factors, one important one would be what kind of treatment you received six years ago.
If you received NO treatment: It would be normal to expect multiple relapses for both GAD and panic disorder and it would be difficult to predict how long they will last.
If you received medication ONLY: For GAD, some studies show that 60-80% of patients who receive short-term treatment with benzodiazepines relapse within one year. These authors (Schweizer, Rickels, & Uhlenhuth, 2000) could not find studies examining relapse rates with antidepressant treatment (there may be some at this point, but I couldn't find them right now either).
For Panic Disorder, there are high relapse rates for both the benzodiazepines and antidepressants ranging from 25%-70% within one to three years.
If you received Cognitive-Behavioral therapy: People who were successful using CBT have the potential for a shorter relapse. If you learned the skills well from CBT therapy, you need to re-activate them to deal with your current difficulties. I have many clients who return for a few "booster" sessions (even many years after completing therapy). Sometimes symptoms return for people when they experience a life change or a series of stressful events.
I hope that helps. If you've never received CBT therapy, you might want to look into it. The Anxiety Disorders Association of America lists therapists who specialize in the treatment of anxiety disorders all over the country.
Best Wishes,
Dr. Jennifer Fee
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