ECONOMIC AND LIFE CONSEQUENCES EXPERIENCED BY A GROUP OF INDIVIDUALS WITH PANIC DISORDER

Individuals with panic disorder frequently seek medical services in emergency rooms, primary care and specialty settings. This study assesses the economic consequences resulting from this health seeking behavior, the personal consequences of panic, and the indirect costs of work days lost. The results of a questionnaire reported for 65 individuals with panic disorder attending a public forum in Richardson, Texas are reported here. About 70% reported currently taking prescription drugs and 15% using alcohol to cope with their panic disorder. Seventy percent reported experiencing depression since their attacks began. Among all individuals studied, it was estimated that seven times as many physician visits were incurred compared to physician visits reported for the general population. Twice as many work days lost were reported for full time workers with panic compared to the general population. Overall life satisfaction and number of "good days" experienced in the past week were lower than other populations. © 1990.