Q How does the Korean medicine treatment process for panic disorder unfold?
A Treatment progresses through four stages: pattern-differentiation diagnosis → Ondamtang or Gwibijang prescription → concurrent acupuncture → anticipatory anxiety management → maintenance.
Detailed Answer
Korean medicine treatment for panic disorder consists of four stages. Stage 1 (weeks 1–2): An initial consultation identifies attack patterns, trigger factors, and pattern differentiation (Simdamheogeop vs. Simshin Buljyo), and an Ondamtang or Gwibijang family prescription is initiated. Stage 2 (months 1–2): Changes in attack frequency and anticipatory anxiety are monitored at two-week intervals, and the prescription is adjusted. Acupuncture is added to accelerate autonomic stabilization. Stage 3 (months 2–3): As attacks diminish, gradual lifestyle exposure training to reduce avoidance behaviors is incorporated. Stage 4 (after 3 months): Transition to a maintenance prescription and relapse-prevention management.
Korean Medicine Clinic Perspective
At Dongjedang, a panic diary template is provided before treatment begins, with guidance on recording the date, situation, and duration of each attack. The diary is reviewed together at every visit to objectively assess treatment progress and allow patients to witness their own recovery firsthand.
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