Residential Treatment for Panic Disorder in Haverhill, MA
Panic Disorder is a type of anxiety disorder characterized by frequent, unexpected panic attacks—sudden and intense episodes of fear that cause physical symptoms such as chest pain, rapid heartbeat, shortness of breath, or dizziness. These attacks often strike without warning and can be so severe that people fear they’re experiencing a heart attack or losing control. Over time, this fear can lead to avoidance of everyday activities and a significant decline in quality of life.
At Serenity at Summit New England in Haverhill, MA, we offer short-term residential mental health treatment specifically designed for adults struggling with panic disorder and severe anxiety. Our program helps patients regain a sense of safety, reduce panic frequency and severity, and develop long-term tools for anxiety management through a structured, clinically supervised environment.
What Are Panic Attacks?
A panic attack is a sudden surge of intense fear or discomfort that peaks within minutes. It activates the body’s fight-or-flight response, even in the absence of danger. Panic attacks can be frightening, especially when the cause isn’t obvious. Some people experience isolated panic attacks, while others develop Panic Disorder when attacks become recurrent and are accompanied by ongoing fear of having more.
Common Symptoms of a Panic Attack:
| Physical Symptoms | Emotional & Cognitive Symptoms |
|---|---|
| Chest pain or tightness | Fear of losing control or “going crazy” |
| Heart palpitations | Fear of dying or having a heart attack |
| Shortness of breath | Feelings of unreality (derealization) |
| Dizziness, nausea, hot flashes | Sense of impending doom |
| Tingling or numbness | Extreme sense of helplessness |
While panic attacks are not physically dangerous, the psychological impact can be profound, especially when left untreated.
What Causes Panic Disorder?
The exact cause of panic disorder isn’t fully understood, but several factors may contribute to its development:
- Genetics: A family history of anxiety or panic disorder increases risk
- Biological vulnerability: Imbalances in brain chemistry or heightened stress response
- Major life stress: Trauma, loss, or sudden changes can trigger symptoms
- Medical issues: Conditions like thyroid problems or stimulant use can mimic or exacerbate panic
- Avoidance behaviors: Over time, fear of future attacks can lead to phobic avoidance of certain places or situations
Without intervention, the disorder often worsens, as fear of panic attacks becomes a panic trigger in itself.
Panic Disorder vs. Other Anxiety Disorders
It’s common to confuse Panic Disorder with Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) or social anxiety, but the nature of fear, symptoms, and duration vary significantly:
| Feature | Panic Disorder | Generalized Anxiety Disorder | Social Anxiety Disorder |
|---|---|---|---|
| Primary Symptom | Sudden panic attacks | Chronic worry | Fear of social judgment |
| Onset | Sudden and intense | Gradual, persistent | Triggered by social situations |
| Physical Intensity | Severe (often disabling) | Mild to moderate | Variable, depending on setting |
| Treatment Approach | CBT, medication, exposure | CBT, relaxation training | CBT, social skills training |
Why Residential Treatment for Panic Disorder?
Residential treatment provides a higher level of care than outpatient therapy. It is especially beneficial when panic attacks are frequent, interfere with daily functioning, or have not improved with previous treatment. At Serenity at Summit New England, our residential care allows for:
- 24/7 supervision and emotional support
- On-site psychiatric evaluation and medication adjustment
- Removal from stressors or environments that reinforce avoidance
- Immersive therapy that builds foundational coping skills
Many patients benefit from time away from home to focus solely on recovery. Our supportive, structured program helps reduce symptom severity and teaches practical tools for self-regulation.
Inside Our Panic Disorder Program in Haverhill, MA
Our 21–35 day program combines evidence-based therapies with compassionate, trauma-informed care. Each patient receives an individualized treatment plan tailored to their symptoms, medical history, and recovery goals.
Program features include:
- Psychiatric assessment: Diagnosis confirmation and medication strategy
- Medication management: SSRIs, SNRIs, beta blockers, or anxiolytics as needed
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): Challenge irrational thoughts and break fear cycles
- Exposure therapy: Gradual, controlled exposure to reduce fear of panic triggers
- Mindfulness and grounding: Breathwork, body scanning, and emotion regulation skills
- Group therapy: Peer connection, anxiety education, and accountability
- Sleep, nutrition, and routine support: Restoring biological rhythm and emotional resilience
Massachusetts Mental Health Trends & Needs
According to data from the Massachusetts Department of Public Health:
- Over 25% of adults in MA report symptoms of anxiety or depression
- ER visits for panic-related complaints have steadily risen over the past decade
- Access to residential mental health care remains limited across Essex County
Serenity at Summit New England helps fill this critical gap by providing specialized inpatient care without requiring a substance use diagnosis. We welcome adults from across Massachusetts and neighboring states who are seeking short-term, focused stabilization for panic and anxiety disorders.
Inpatient vs. Outpatient Comparison
| Aspect | Outpatient Therapy | Residential Treatment |
|---|---|---|
| Level of Support | 1–2 sessions per week | 24/7 therapeutic environment |
| Best For | Mild to moderate symptoms | Severe, disabling symptoms |
| Access to Psychiatry | Limited; outside referrals | On-site daily medication management |
| Structure & Routine | Self-directed | Fully scheduled therapeutic program |
Discharge Planning and Aftercare
We begin planning for aftercare from the first week of treatment. Our discharge team works with each patient to build a sustainable recovery path, which may include:
- Referrals to outpatient anxiety specialists
- Psychiatric follow-up and prescription management
- Behavioral plans for exposure and response prevention
- Support group recommendations and accountability tools
- Family education to reinforce healthy support systems
Take the First Step Toward Freedom
Panic Disorder can feel unpredictable and overwhelming—but it is highly treatable. With the right support, recovery is not only possible—it’s expected. Serenity at Summit in Haverhill, MA offers a calm, professional space where healing begins. Let us help you interrupt the cycle of fear and rediscover a sense of control, safety, and confidence in your everyday life.
📍 Address: 61 Brown Street, Haverhill, MA 01830
📞 Call: 978-312-9830
🌐 Website: www.serenityatsummit.com
Contact Serenity At Summit
If you or someone you love is struggling with panic attacks or anxiety, don’t wait. Contact us today to learn more about our residential treatment program.
We’re here to help you breathe easier and live better—starting now.
