Why Athletes and Go-Getters Recover from Panic Attacks Faster
When it comes to overcoming panic attacks, some people seem to bounce back faster than others. One striking pattern I’ve noticed in my practice is that athletes and go-getters—those driven, high-achieving individuals who tackle challenges head-on—often recover much more quickly from panic disorder than the average person. Why is that?
The answer lies in their mindset and their relationship with discomfort. Let’s break down the key reasons why athletes and go-getters tend to excel in panic recovery and what you can learn from their approach.
1. They Are Used to Discomfort and Pushing Through It
Athletes regularly push their bodies to the limit, experiencing pain, exhaustion, and discomfort as part of their training. They don’t panic when their heart races or their breathing becomes labored—they expect it. This familiarity with physical discomfort makes it easier for them to reinterpret panic symptoms as non-threatening.
Similarly, go-getters are often exposed to high-pressure environments where stress is unavoidable. Whether it’s public speaking, negotiating deals, or hitting deadlines, they’ve developed a tolerance for discomfort and learned to function despite it. This ability to lean into stress rather than resist it is crucial for overcoming panic.
2. They Have a Growth Mindset
Both athletes and high-achievers tend to see challenges as opportunities for growth. When they experience panic attacks, their mindset isn’t, Oh no, I’m broken, but rather, Okay, how do I overcome this? They look for solutions, actively engage in treatment, and are willing to put in the work required to improve.
Contrast this with someone who feels overwhelmed by panic attacks and sees them as something they have no control over. The difference in mindset can significantly impact recovery time.
3. They Are Comfortable with Exposure Therapy
One of the most effective treatments for panic disorder is exposure therapy—gradually exposing yourself to feared sensations or situations until they no longer trigger panic.
Athletes and go-getters are already accustomed to exposure. A runner doesn’t expect to be comfortable during intense training, and a high achiever doesn’t expect to avoid challenges. They are more likely to embrace exposure therapy rather than resist it, making the process much smoother.
4. They Understand the Importance of Repetition and Consistency
Success in sports and business requires consistent effort over time. Athletes don’t build endurance overnight, and go-getters don’t become successful in a day. They are used to showing up, putting in the work, and trusting the process.
This consistency translates well into panic recovery. Many people quit too soon because they expect immediate results. Athletes and high-achievers, on the other hand, understand that progress takes time and are more likely to stick with their treatment plan.
5. They Have Learned to Manage Fear
Fear is a part of both athletics and high achievement. Athletes feel fear before a big game or race, and go-getters feel fear before taking big risks. However, they have learned to act despite fear rather than be paralyzed by it.
When applied to panic disorder, this skill is invaluable. Panic recovery is not about eliminating fear completely—it’s about learning to live with it and not let it control your actions. Athletes and go-getters already have this skill, giving them an edge in treatment.
What You Can Learn from Them
The good news is that you don’t have to be an athlete or a high-achiever to benefit from these principles. Here’s how you can adopt their mindset:
Get comfortable with discomfort. Instead of avoiding discomfort, consider using exercise as a controlled way to build resilience over time. Pushing yourself through manageable physical challenges—whether through strength training, cardio, or endurance activities—can help you develop the mental toughness needed to tolerate the discomfort of panic symptoms. Instead of avoiding situations that make you anxious, gradually expose yourself to them.
Adopt a growth mindset. View panic attacks as a challenge to overcome rather than a life sentence.
Commit to repetition. Practice the skills you learn in therapy regularly, even when you don’t feel like it.
Act despite fear. Don’t wait for anxiety to disappear before taking action—take action while anxious.
Stay consistent. Recovery takes time. Trust the process and keep going.
By applying these principles, you can significantly improve your ability to overcome panic attacks and regain control of your life.
