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 NICE CG113.
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 NICE CG113.
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 NICE CG113.
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 NICE CG113.