
                         Roanoke Times
                 Copyright (c) 1995, Landmark Communications, Inc.

DATE: WEDNESDAY, September 6, 1995                   TAG: 9509060070
SECTION: CURRENT                    PAGE: NRV-11   EDITION: NEW RIVER VALLEY 
SOURCE: 
DATELINE: BLACKSBURG                                LENGTH: Short

PANIC ATTACK SELF-HELP PROGRAM

Many American adults know the feeling: intense fear and a shortness of breath. A feeling of being out of control. Faintness, dizziness and nausea.

About a third of adults, many of whom are young people, experience at least one panic attack each year. Attacks may occur during periods of high stress, such as when taking exams, or during increased job demands or after the loss of a close relationship through separation or death.

Because many of the symptoms of a panic attack are physical, sufferers may seek out a physician. But often the condition stems from anxiety.

Virginia Tech's psychology department is sponsoring a self-help program, shown to be effective for treating panic attacks, for local sufferers of the condition. For a small fee, therapists will provide books and workbooks, and analyze responses, all through the mail. Participants will be given feedback and a maintenance program.

For more information, call 231-3235 or 231-6914, or e-mail Allison Roodman at aroodmanvt.edu.

by CNB