Panic disorder management in primary care: initial treatment steps?

In primary care, initial management of panic disorder involves recognition and diagnosis through a structured consultation process, ensuring high standards of consultation skills are used to elicit relevant information about personal history, comorbidities, and individual characteristics ¹.

All healthcare professionals should be alert to comorbidities such as depression and substance misuse, and treatment priorities should be discussed with the person, including drawing up a timeline to understand symptom development ¹.

If a person presents with a panic attack, they should be asked if they are already receiving treatment, undergo minimal investigations to exclude physical problems, and be referred to primary care for follow-up, with appropriate written information provided about panic attacks and sources of support ¹.

For people with mild to moderate panic disorder, offer or refer for low-intensity interventions such as individual non-facilitated or facilitated self-help, and discuss support groups and the benefits of exercise ¹.