Panic Disorder

Korean traditional medicine treatment for panic disorder consists of four stages. Stage 1 (1–2 weeks): Through an initial consultation, attack patterns, triggering factors, and differential diagnosis (Heart-Dam Deficiency vs. Heart-Skin Disintegration) are identified. Prescriptions are then initiated using herbal medicines that resolve phlegm and stabilize the mind, or those that nourish both the mind and the spleen and stomach. Stage 2 (1–2 months): The prescription is adjusted every two weeks while tracking changes in attack frequency and anticipatory anxiety. Acupuncture treatment is added to accelerate the stabilization of the autonomic nervous system. Stage 3 (2–3 months): As attacks decrease, lifestyle training is conducted to gradually reduce avoidance behaviors. Stage 4 (After 3 months): Switch to a maintenance prescription and conclude with relapse prevention management. At Dongjedang, we provide a panic disorder diary form before treatment begins and guide patients to record the frequency, situation, and duration of attacks. We review the diary together at every visit to objectively evaluate treatment effectiveness and allow patients to directly monitor their recovery process.