The risk factors for panic disorder

Background : Panic disorder is characterized by sudden episodes of intense fear or discomfort that significantly impair daily functioning. While many studies have examined risk factors associated with panic disorder, limited evidence exists regarding these factors among the Palestinian population. Aim: This study aimed to identify risk factors associated with panic disorder severity among Palestinians. Methods : A cross-sectional study design was employed, involving 134 participants diagnosed with panic disorder. Panic severity was assessed using the CISDPD and HAM-A scales. Results :The results demonstrated significant mean differences in panic disorder severity among participants with a history of suicidal attempts and drug abuse or addiction, as measured by both scales (p<0.05). In contrast, income level, exposure to Israeli occupation procedures, family history of mental disorders, chronic health conditions, and exposure to traumatic events were not significantly associated with panic disorder severity (p≥0.05).Multiple linear regression analysis showed that gender and age significantly influenced panic disorder severity on the CISDPD scale (p<0.05). On the HAM-A scale, panic disorder severity was significantly affected by gender (p<0.05) and duration of illness (p<0.01). Factors such as agoraphobia, prior history of panic disorder, and receipt of interventions did not significantly affect CISDPD scores. Similarly, age, agoraphobia, and received interventions showed no significant effect on HAM-A scores (p≥0.05). Conclusion: Overall, the findings suggest that panic disorder severity among Palestinians is primarily associated with demographic factors and comorbid conditions, particularly gender, suicidal behavior, substance abuse, age, and illness duration. Socioeconomic status, trauma-related factors, and clinical interventions were not found to significantly influence panic disorder severity. These results highlight the importance of focusing on demographic and comorbidity-related factors when assessing and managing panic disorder in this population.