Panic Disorders Group Therapies Help - Do Not Fear Them

(My Original Blog Post: http://ping.fm/di5KO)

Group based therapies for panic disorders are aimed at helping people develop good communication skills and be able to adequately express their feelings. Studies show that those afflicted with panic disorders find it difficult expressing their feelings. This makes them reticent and causes increased stress and anxiety levels. As they become more afraid at being assertive.


So, what is group therapy?



It's not suprising that many people ask what Group therapy for Panic disorder is all about, as the name implies,group therapy for panic disorder is a type of psychological therapy that is conducted with a group of people, rather than in a one-on-one session.


Here are some of the Benefits of Group Therapy


Probably the biggest advantage of group therapy is in helping a patient realize that he or she is not alone -- that there are other people who have the same problems. This is often a revelation, and a huge relief, to the person and it helps him/her to cope better with the condition.


Being in group therapy can also help you develop new skills to relate to others. The dynamics of a group often mirror those of society in general, and learning how to interact with the other members of the group can help you in your relationships outside the group. In addition, the members of the group who have the same problem(s) can support each other, and may offer suggestions to dealing with a particular problem that you may not have thought of before.


While you may find yourself uncomfortable at first when the time comes to discuss your problems in front of strangers. This feeling often subsides with time as you continue participating. Also the fact that other people are facing the same type of situation as you may help you open up and discuss your feelings without fear of embarassment. In addition, everything that takes place within the group therapy session is kept confidential to the outside world.


What to Expect in a group therapy;


Group therapy sessions vary, but the basic format is a small group of patients (no more than ten) meet on a regular basis to discuss their feelings and problems and provide mutual support. The session is guided by a professional therapist who is specially trained in group therapy. The therapist acts as moderator and may suggest a "theme" or topic for the group's discussion. Sometimes, the therapist will allow the group members to pick the topic for the session.


As part of the group therapy session, members try to change their old ways of behaving in favor of newer, more productive ways. Typically, there is a great deal of interaction and discussion among the members of the group. The members may also undertake specific activities, such as addressing certain fears and anxieties.


Are you a Candidate?


Group therapy or psyhological therapy can help anyone who is in need of psychological services. Like individual therapy, group therapy can benefit people with such conditions as depression, family problems, addictions, phobias, etc. In some cases, people who are taking part in group therapy will also undergo individual counseling (one-on-one with a therapist).


The makeup of the group varies; in some cases, the group consists of people who have the same condition (for example, depression). In other cases, the group is mixed.