Panic Center (Canada)

Description:

Panic Center is an interactive website which aims to enhance communication between people suffering panic disorder and health care professionals.  Features include psychoeducation, a support group, screening tests for mood and anxiety disorders, a diary for you to record panic symptoms and a CBT program comprising 12 sessions (which is also downloadable).  When you register for Panic Center you complete an online assessment, and the CBT program includes homework and exercises designed to help you monitor your progress.  Each weekly session begins by asking you questions about your mood which is stored for future reference.  The CBT sessions include information about panic and agoraphobia, goal setting, exercises involving exposure, changing your thinking, interoceptive exposure (to internal sensations associated with anxiety), relaxation training, and tips for lifestyle and stress-management.

Service URL:

http://www.paniccenter.net

Agency Responsible:

V-CC Systems Inc..

Details

Format:

Website.

Intervention Type:

Psychological – CBT.

Course Length:

Long (more than 5 modules). 12 modules

Support Option:

Clinical support. Provided by registered nurses who moderate the forum

Target Audience

Primary Category:

Panic disorder. Also targets agoraphobia

Target Audience:

Adult.

Language:

English.

Access

Fee:

Free.

Access:

Open: With registration.

Contact Details:

admin@v-cc.com

Research evidence

Research Trials:

1

Research RCTs:

0

Outcome Summary:

Longitudinal research has reported positive results for Panic Center.  In a study of self-selected visitors to the site, the program was found to significantly reduce panic attack frequency and severity with increasing sessions, and this included a significant improvement from sessions two to three.  However, attrition rates were high with only 12 (1.03%) participants completing all 12 sessions.  For these completers, fulfilment of DSM IV Axis 1 Disorder diagnoses reduced significantly from 1.42 to 0.42 throughout the 12 sessions.  Further, diagnosis of panic disorder with agoraphobia reduced from 8 to 2 (p=.004), and those meeting social anxiety criteria from 3 to 1.  Self-ratings of the interference of panic disorder with normal life decreased significantly from 2.58 to 0.42 for panic attacks.  Participants reported that the forum and program were helpful, and they felt they had improved and could challenge their anxiety, set goals and develop exposure exercises successfully.

Recommended rating, reviewer 1:

Recommended rating, reviewer 2:

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Research paper citations

1. Farvolden, P., Denisoff, E., Selby, P., Bagby, R. M., & Rudy, L. (2005). Usage and longitudinal effectiveness of a web-based self-help cognitive behavioural therapy program for panic disorder. Journal of Medical Internet Research, 7, e7.