Panic Attack And Anxiety Attack

Panic attacks and Anxiety attacks are terms often used interchangeably in casual conversation, but they have distinct meanings in clinical settings. Understanding the differences between the two can help you better identify your symptoms and seek appropriate support.

Key Differences: Panic Attack vs. Anxiety Attack

1. Medical Definition
Panic Attack: A panic attack is a well-defined medical term listed in the *Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5)*. It refers to sudden episodes of intense fear or discomfort that peak within minutes and are accompanied by physical and cognitive symptoms.

Anxiety Attack: The term “anxiety attack” does not appear in the DSM-5 and lacks a formal definition. It’s often used colloquially to describe periods of heightened anxiety or stress, but it doesn’t refer to a specific clinical condition.

2. Onset and Triggers
Panic Attack: Panic attacks typically occur unexpectedly and without an obvious trigger. They can happen even when there’s no immediate threat or danger, making them feel unpredictable and overwhelming.

Anxiety Attack: Anxiety attacks, on the other hand, are usually linked to specific stressors or worries. For example, someone might experience heightened anxiety before a big presentation or during a stressful life event.

3. Duration
Panic Attack: Panic attacks tend to be short-lived, peaking within 10 minutes and subsiding within 20–30 minutes. However, some people may experience lingering effects for hours afterward.

Anxiety Attack: Anxiety attacks are generally more prolonged and can last for hours, days, or even weeks if left unaddressed. The intensity of anxiety tends to build gradually rather than spike suddenly.

4. Intensity
Panic Attack: Panic attacks are intense and debilitating. They often involve a sense of impending doom, fear of losing control, or even fear of dying. The physical symptoms can feel overwhelming and mimic serious health issues like a heart attack.

Anxiety Attack: Anxiety attacks are typically less severe. While they can still cause significant distress, they don’t usually reach the same level of physical intensity as panic attacks. People may feel shaky, nervous, or restless but not paralyzed by fear.

5. Symptoms
Here’s an overview of typical symptoms linked to each:

Example Scenario

A panic attack is an abrupt onset of overwhelming fear or distress that peaks within minutes.It is often associated with panic disorder, a mental health condition characterized by recurrent, unexpected panic attacks. These episodes can be so frightening that individuals may develop anticipatory anxiety—fear of having another panic attack—which can further exacerbate the cycle.

Example Scenario

Imagine you’re sitting at home watching TV when, out of nowhere, your heart starts racing, you feel dizzy, and you think you might pass out. You might believe you’re having a heart attack, even though there’s no actual danger present. This is a classic example of a panic attack.

What Is an Anxiety Attack?

Since “anxiety attack” isn’t a clinical term, it’s often used to describe periods of heightened anxiety or stress. These episodes are typically tied to specific triggers, such as work pressure, relationship problems, or financial concerns. Unlike panic attacks, anxiety attacks tend to escalate slowly and persist over time.
Suppose you have a major deadline approaching at work. As the due date nears, you start feeling increasingly tense, restless, and irritable. Your mind races with worst-case scenarios, and you struggle to focus on anything else. This buildup of anxiety could be described as an “anxiety attack.”
Conditions Related to Panic Attacks and Anxiety
While panic attacks are closely tied to panic disorder, both types of episodes can occur alongside other mental health conditions, including:
Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD): Characterized by excessive worry about everyday situations.
Social Anxiety Disorder: Involves intense fear of social interactions or performance situations.
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD): This may include flashbacks, hypervigilance, and panic-like symptoms.
Phobias: Specific fears that can trigger panic attacks when exposed to the feared object or situation.
How to Manage Panic Attacks and Anxiety
If you’re experiencing either type of episode, here are some strategies to help manage your symptoms:

How to Manage Panic Attacks and Anxiety

For Panic Attacks:

1. Practice Deep Breathing: Focus on slow, controlled breaths to calm your nervous system.
2. Ground Yourself: Use techniques like the 5-4-3-2-1 method to reconnect with your surroundings.
3. Remind Yourself It Will Pass: Reassure yourself that the panic attack is temporary.
4. Seek Professional Help: Therapy (e.g., cognitive-behavioral therapy) and medication can be effective treatments.

For Anxiety Attacks:

1. Identify Triggers: Keep a journal to track what causes your anxiety.
2. Engage in Relaxation Techniques: Try meditation, yoga, or progressive muscle relaxation.
3. Challenge Negative Thoughts: Reframe irrational worries using logic and evidence.
4. Talk to a Therapist: Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is particularly helpful for managing chronic anxiety.

When to Seek Help

If panic attacks or anxiety attacks interfere with your daily life, relationships, or ability to function, it’s important to consult a mental health professional. Early intervention can prevent these episodes from worsening and improve your overall quality of life.

Final Thoughts
While panic attacks and anxiety attacks share some similarities, they differ significantly in terms of onset, intensity, and duration. Panic attacks are acute, intense, and often unpredictable,

Panic attacks and anxiety attacks are terms often used interchangeably in casual conversation, but they have distinct meanings in clinical settings. Understanding the differences between the two can help you better identify your symptoms and seek appropriate support.

Medically reviewed by
A. Herries RDN