For some reason, in our action-oriented busy worlds, sleep time often takes a backseat to the go go go of postmodern living. We almost take sleep as an afterthought, as if we could function just as well on 4 hours of sleep as on 8 hours of sleep. Maybe some people can, but only in the short run. Repeated or significant sleep deprivation is incredibly stressful, keeps us from the great replenishing and healing value of sleep, and results in serious consequences for the mind and body. Lack of sleep can easily lead to increased anxiety and panic attacks; for those who already suffer from panic attacks, lack of sleep usually makes it worse.

Sleep researchers say that most adults in good health need about 7.5 hours of sleep a night to function at their best, physically and emotionally. Routinely getting less then 6 hours of sleep leads to problems in mental alertness, emotional stability, sexual performance, intellectual functioning, as well as decreased physical coordination and increased risk of health problems. Excessive sleep deprivation often leads to psychotic-like thinking including paranoia, hallucinating, and delusional beliefs. There does not seem to be any inherent reason that over-sleeping in itself would lead to panic but it might if related to worry about not getting things done, missing work, substance abuse and crashing, withdrawal, depression and other triggers for panic.

Panic attacks symptoms often include excessive worry and anxiety, increased heart rate, hyper-ventilating (feeling that you can’t get enough air and then over-breathing), light headedness, and a feeling that one is losing one’s mind or going crazy. These symptoms are made worse from lack of sleep for any reason, and in particular when combined with stimulants including caffeine and amphetamine-type drugs. Some folks think that being on a drug that keeps them up for long hours and even days means it is okay to pass up sleeping, but the body and mind won’t take no from anyone, requiring rest and rejuvenation to function effectively.

For those that have had even one severe panic attacks or repeated moderate panic attacks, it would be wise to visit your doctor to rule out any physical problems as well as visit a psychotherapist or counselor who is familiar with helping people manage, cope with, and overcome panic attacks. Panic is one of the most manageable of all emotional conditions when given proper attention. Getting the right amount of sleep is a necessity for people with panic attacks and makes anyone’s life a lot better. We have always known this, but often in the hustle and bustle we forget, so I am considering myself reminded, zzz.