Q I have panic disorder and also feel quite depressed. Can both be treated together with Korean medicine?
A Panic disorder and depression co-occur in over 50% of cases — Korean medicine addresses both simultaneously with formulas that treat Simdamheogeop (Heart-Gallbladder deficiency) and Liver Qi stagnation together.
Detailed Answer
Fifty to sixty-five percent of patients with panic disorder also experience a major depressive episode. Repeated attacks and life limitations caused by avoidance behavior create a vicious cycle of helplessness and depression. Panic disorder with concurrent depression responds more slowly to treatment and has a higher relapse rate, requiring a more proactive approach. SSRIs are effective for both panic and depression, so maintaining conventional medical treatment is important while Korean medicine corrects the underlying Heart-Mind imbalance.
Korean Medicine Clinic Perspective
In Korean medicine, the co-occurrence of panic and depression is viewed as Simdamheogeop (心膽虛怯) compounded by Liver Qi stagnation (간울 / 肝鬱). At Dongjedang, Bupleurum (Siho / 柴胡) and Cyperus (Hyangbuja / 香附子) — herbs that soothe and unblock Liver Qi — are added to the Ondamtang and Gwibijang base formula to address both anxiety and depression within a single prescription. Acupuncture at LR3 (Taichung), PC6 (Neiguan), and GV20 (Baihui) regulates the stress response and stabilizes mood.
Related FAQs
-
Q
Can people with panic disorder maintain their work and daily life?
#Possibility / Realistic Goals
-
Q
Is there a method I can use immediately when I feel a panic attack is about to occur?
#Lifestyle Management
-
Q
How should I manage sleep when I have panic disorder?
#Lifestyle Management
-
Q
Will taking herbal medicine for panic disorder make me more anxious or cause side effects?
#Safety
-
Q
When should I go to the emergency room during a panic attack?
#Safety