Experiencing panic attacks during psychotherapy sessions but not before can be attributed to several factors. It's essential to consider the specific circumstances and individual factors that might have contributed to this change in your emotional response. Here are some possible reasons:
Emotional Triggers: Psychotherapy sessions often involve exploring deep emotions and unresolved issues. Discussing certain topics or delving into past traumas can trigger intense emotional responses, including panic attacks. These emotions might have been repressed or suppressed before therapy, but the therapeutic process can bring them to the surface.
Vulnerability and Trust: Psychotherapy creates a safe space for individuals to open up and be vulnerable. As you build trust with your therapist and begin discussing personal and sensitive topics, it can bring out emotions that were previously kept hidden.
Unconscious Processes: Psychotherapy can tap into unconscious thoughts and feelings that were not fully understood or recognized before. These unconscious processes can manifest during sessions and lead to panic attacks.
Resurfacing of Trauma: If you are working through past traumas or unresolved issues in therapy, the process can be emotionally challenging. As you confront these traumatic experiences, it can trigger panic attacks as a reaction to the distressing memories and emotions.
Self-Reflection and Awareness: Engaging in psychotherapy encourages self-reflection and increased self-awareness. This heightened awareness of emotions and thoughts might lead to a better recognition of panic attack symptoms that were previously overlooked.
Transition Period: Starting therapy can be an adjustment period, and it's common to experience heightened anxiety during this time. As you establish a therapeutic relationship and adapt to the process, your emotional responses may change.
Learning Coping Mechanisms: During therapy, you might be learning coping mechanisms and strategies to manage stress and emotions. This process can initially cause heightened anxiety as you experiment with new ways of handling your feelings.
It's crucial to communicate openly with your therapist about your experiences with panic attacks during sessions. They can help you explore the underlying reasons and provide support and guidance in managing your anxiety. If the panic attacks are interfering significantly with your ability to engage in therapy, your therapist may adjust the treatment approach or incorporate additional techniques to address the anxiety. Additionally, seeking a therapist who specializes in anxiety or panic disorders may be beneficial in providing targeted support.