Perceived Health Among Individuals With Panic Disorder

Abstract

The present investigation evaluated the predictive nature of perceived physical health in relation to affective vulnerability and psychiatric disability among individuals with panic disorder. Participants included 39 individuals (Mage = 25.86; 69% female) with a primary diagnosis of panic disorder (with and without agoraphobia) recruited through the general community. As expected, poor physical health perceptions are significantly related to greater panic disorder severity and higher levels of anxiety sensitivity (fear of anxiety). Poorer perceived health also predicted higher levels of negative affectivity and increased impairment in both family/home responsibilities and social functioning. These findings are discussed with respect to understanding better how perceptions of health may influence the nature of panic disorder.