Nearly everyone experiences moments of fear from time to time. But some people can be overcome with fear on a regular basis. The National Institute of Mental Health reports that 18 percent of adults in the U.S. suffer from anxiety disorders that may cause intense fear and uncertainty. Abrupt episodes of extreme fear for no obvious reason are defined as panic attacks, according to the Mayo Clinic. Panic attacks can cause physical reactions such as a racing heart. Certain medications, therapy and lifestyle changes may help conquer fear.
Antidepressants
Antidepressant medications such as fluoxetine, also known by the brand name Prozac, paroxetine, or Paxil, and sertraline, or Zoloft, can help diminish the intensity and frequency of fearful feelings associated with panic attacks, according to the NIMH.
The Mayo Clinic notes that selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, also known as SSRIs, are usually the first medicinal choice to treat panic attacks because of their general effectiveness and minimal side effects.
Beta Blockers
Beta blockers may help relieve the physical symptoms associated with intense fear, such as sweating and rapid heartbeat. Beta blockers work to lower blood pressure and cause your heart to beat more slowly by inhibiting the effects of adrenaline, according to the Mayo Clinic. Beta blocker medications include acebutolol, brand name Sectral, and propranolol, or Inderal LA.
Anti-Anxiety Drugs
Anti-anxiety drugs have a sedating effect that may help calm fears. Diazepam, also known under the trade name Valium, is often prescribed to relieve the symptoms of anxiety disorders, according to Drugs.com. Alprazolam, or Xanax, is also used to treat anxiety panic disorders and anxiety caused by depression.
Cognitive Therapy
Cognitive behavioral therapy with a professional therapist, psychologist or psychiatrist can help alter thought patterns that can trigger fear and panic, according to Harvard Health Publications. While in therapy, patients learn to identify specific thoughts or situations that trigger or intensify feelings of panic.
Psychodynamic Therapy
Psychodynamic psychotherapy focuses on increasing your awareness of unconscious thoughts and behaviors, according to the Mayo Clinic. A therapist helps you delve deep into your mind to identify internal emotional conflict that may play a role in fearful reactions and panic. During psychodynamic psychotherapy you will learn to develop healthier ways to handle fear-provoking situations.
Support Group
Panic and anxiety support groups allow you to connect with other individuals who are struggling to overcome fears, according to the Mayo Clinic. Participating in a group setting can make you feel less isolated and possibly learn new coping strategies from other group members.
Relaxation
Quieting your body and mind through relaxation may help tame feelings of fear and anxiety. Calming methods include deep breathing, yoga and meditation.
The Mayo Clinic reports that another technique known as progressive muscle relaxation may produce calming effects. With this technique, you inhale and deliberately tense a muscle for around eight seconds and then release the tension as you exhale. Do this one muscle at a time until the entire body is in a relaxed state.
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