This work may not be copied, distributed, displayed, published, reproduced, transmitted, modified, posted, sold, licensed, or used for commercial purposes. By downloading this file, you are agreeing to the publisher’s Terms & Conditions.

Academic Highlights

Panic Disorder: Making Clinical Sense of the Latest Research

Jonathan R. T. Davidson, M.D.; and David H. Barlow, Ph.D.

Published: March 15, 1997

Article Abstract

Click to enlarge page

In his opening remarks, Jonathan R. T. Davidson, M.D., noted that the concept of quality of life—"the impact of illnesses on everyday life, everyday functioning, personal contentment, and health-seeking behaviors"—has only recently received recognition as an important consideration in the treatment of all anxiety disorders, including panic disorder.

According to Dr. Davidson, quality of life is generally measured in three separate domains: personal happiness, which may be assessed in part by examining the patient’s relationships and tendencies toward substance abuse and suicide attempts; role functioning, which includes work and family adjustment and the pursuit of social and leisure activities; and health status, which encompasses the patient’s use of medical resources and limitations on functioning. He stressed that all three domains must be addressed when evaluating the impact of treatment on quality of life in panic disorder.


Some JCP and PCC articles are available in PDF format only. Please click the PDF link at the top of this page to access the full text.

Related Articles

Volume: 58

Quick Links: Anxiety , Panic Disorder