PANIC PSYCHOPATHOLOGY AND SUBSTANCE USE DISORDERS

Anxiety disorders and substance use disorders frequently co-occur and can influence the onset and maintenance of the other. The present article summarizes key aspects of this literature, specifically, with respect to panic psychopathology and some of the most commonly used substances--tobacco, alcohol, and marijuana. First, we present definitions for panic psychopathology and substance use disorders. Second, we over view the co-occurrence of panic psychopathology with tobacco, alcohol, and marijuana. Third, we present a general theoretical model for better understanding panic-substance use relations. Fourth, we present some key findings related to the developmental onset patterns and bi-directional nature of relations between panic psychopathology and substance use and its disorders. Finally, we discuss existing treatment options and present an integrative treatment model that may be useful for guiding case conceptualization and related intervention strategies for panic psychopathology and substance use.