What treatment strategy is emphasized in cognitive-behavioral therapy for panic disorders?

The emphasis in cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) for panic disorders is on gradual exposure to feared sensations. This approach is rooted in the understanding that avoidance behavior can reinforce fear and anxiety, leading to increased panic symptoms over time. By gradually exposing individuals to the sensations that trigger their panic, CBT helps them to confront and process their fears in a controlled and supportive environment. This exposure allows patients to learn that the feared sensations are not harmful, thereby reducing the anxiety associated with those sensations.

Gradual exposure also fosters the development of coping strategies and resilience, enabling individuals to manage their responses to panic. Through repeated exposure, they can experience a decrease in their fear response, leading to improved functioning and a reduction in panic attacks. This technique is often paired with cognitive restructuring, where patients learn to challenge and change their irrational beliefs about panic and its consequences.

The other strategies mentioned, like avoidance of feared situations or using medication exclusively, do not address the underlying issues associated with panic disorder in the way that gradual exposure does. Ignoring panic symptoms disregards the importance of understanding and managing those symptoms effectively, which is vital in CBT. Therefore, the focus on gradual exposure is a foundational aspect of CBT protocols aimed at treating panic disorders.