What do the results mean?
Your provider may use the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM) to help make a diagnosis. The DSM-5 (fifth edition of the DSM) is a book published by the American Psychiatric Association that provides guidelines for diagnosing mental health conditions.
DSM-5 guidelines for diagnosing panic disorder include:
Frequent, unexpected panic attacks
Ongoing worry about having another panic attack
Fear of losing control
No other cause of a panic attack, such as drug use or a physical disorder
Treatment for panic disorder usually includes one or both of the following:
Psychological counseling
Anti-anxiety or antidepressant medicines
