Panic Attack vs. Anxiety Attack: The Key Differences

We have all faced moments of overwhelming intensity, struggling to understand why certain experiences feel so consuming or why internal battles seem impossible to escape. Recognizing whether these feelings stem from a panic attack or an anxiety attack is not just about labeling what is happening. It is about gaining clarity, finding reassurance, and learning how to navigate through it.

Think of it as understanding the weather patterns of your mind. It is the difference between bracing for a sudden, powerful storm and preparing for days of heavy clouds. When you know what you are facing, you can find the right tools to manage it and regain a sense of control.

Dr. Susan Hollander, Ph.D., explains the distinct characteristics of panic and anxiety attacks, helping you make sense of the symptoms and explore effective strategies for relief. Whether you are searching for answers for yourself or hoping to support a loved one, this is a step toward feeling more empowered and less alone.

What is a Panic Attack?

A panic attack feels like a sudden wave that catches you off guard. It brings a rush of intense fear or discomfort that reaches its peak in a few minutes. When someone is having a panic attack, they might notice their heart racing, which is called heart palpitations. They may also feel chest pain, a tightness in their throat, or a strong sense that something bad is about to happen.

These feelings appear suddenly, making panic attacks confusing and scary for those who go through them. It’s important to remember that you’re not alone, and there are ways to manage these experiences.

• Unexpected Panic Attacks and Panic Disorder: Many people have panic attacks without having panic disorder. But, when someone has repeated and unexpected panic attacks, it can indicate this condition. The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM) describes panic disorder as more than just attacks. It also includes the ongoing worry about having more attacks and any changes in behavior that come from that worry. 
• For instance, someone might choose to avoid exercise because they fear it might bring on another attack. Understanding this helps us support those who are facing these challenges.

Recent research from top mental health organizations shows that panic attacks can be quite intense. A study in the World Journal of Psychiatry explains that during these moments, our body’s autonomic nervous system is working hard. 

Understanding this research is important because it confirms that panic attacks are real and serious. It also gives us valuable insights into why they feel so sudden and overwhelming.

What is an Anxiety Attack?

Anxiety attacks are moments when you may feel very anxious and scared. They build up gradually and are tough to handle. During these times, you might notice both physical and emotional symptoms that get stronger over time. Unlike panic attacks, which happen suddenly, anxiety attacks develop more slowly. 

Characterization and Symptoms:

1. Gradual Onset: The anxiety builds up over time, intensifying as the situation progresses or as more stress is encountered.
2. Worry and Apprehension: Constant, excessive worry that is hard to control. This worry can be about finances, health, work, relationships, or other everyday issues.
3. Muscle Tension: Persistent tension in muscles, often accompanied by physical symptoms like headaches or body aches.
4. Restlessness: A feeling of being ‘on edge’ or unable to relax, which might make it hard to sit still.
5. Fatigue and Sleep Disturbances: Despite feeling mentally and physically exhausted, you may find it difficult to sleep well.
6. Mood Symptoms: Irritability and mood swings are common, making day-to-day emotional regulation challenging.

For those who feel that anxiety is consistently interfering with their professional performance or personal relationships, Dr. Susan Hollander provides in-depth insights and coping strategies. Learn more about managing high-functioning anxiety and its impact on relationships through her article here.

Relation to Anxiety Disorders:

• Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD): Anxiety attacks are not triggered by specific events but are a part of ongoing excessive worry and potential brain fog.
• Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD): Anxiety may surge related to intrusive thoughts or the compulsion to perform rituals perfectly.
• Research Context: Research published in The American Journal of Psychiatry shows that anxiety symptoms in various disorders often appear in long-lasting ways. This suggests that they can be ongoing, with feelings of anxiety persisting over time instead of just happening in short bursts.

Recognizing these characteristics will help you notice when you might be having an anxiety attack. It also highlights how these symptoms connect to larger anxiety disorders. By being aware of these patterns, we can treat ourselves with kindness and find better ways to get support and handle our anxiety.

Situations That Can Cause Panic and Anxiety Attacks

Panic Attack Triggers

Panic attacks often occur without warning and may not always have an identifiable trigger. However, some common situations include:

• Public Speaking or Performance: The fear of judgment or making a mistake in front of others.
• Crowded or Confined Spaces: Environments like packed elevators, airplanes, or large events.
• Physical Exertion or Exercise: Particularly if it mimics panic symptoms like an increased heart rate or shortness of breath.
• Medical Procedures: Fear of needles, blood, or diagnostic tests.
• Trauma-Related Situations: Encountering reminders of past traumatic events.
• Sleep Deprivation: Fatigue that amplifies physical sensations of stress.
• Sudden Stressful Events: Receiving bad news or experiencing an accident.

Anxiety Attack Triggers

Anxiety attacks typically develop over time and are often tied to ongoing stressors or anticipatory fear. Common triggers include:

• Work-Related Stress: Deadlines, performance reviews, or job insecurity.
• Financial Struggles: Overwhelming debt, unpaid bills, or concerns about stability.
• Relationship Issues: Conflicts with loved ones, fear of abandonment, or ongoing tension.
• Health Worries: Concern over personal health or the well-being of a loved one.
• Academic Pressure: Exams, presentations, or fears of failing.
• Social Situations: Meeting new people, attending parties, or fear of rejection.
• Major Life Changes: Moving, starting a new job, or the loss of a loved one.
• Parenting Stress: Worrying about children’s safety, behavior, or future.

Key Differences Between Panic Attacks and Anxiety Attacks

It’s important to know the differences between panic attacks and anxiety attacks to manage and treat them effectively. Both are very challenging, but they have different signs, lengths, and triggers. Understanding these differences helps you find the right support and coping strategies.

Clinical Distinctions:

• Onset and Duration: Panic attacks are acute and intense, starting suddenly and peaking within minutes. They generally last a short period, often under 30 minutes. Anxiety attacks develop gradually and last for several hours or even days, with a persistent level of heightened anxiety.
• Symptoms: Panic attacks are overwhelming. They often bring on strong physical symptoms like chest pain, heart racing, trouble breathing, dizziness, or stomach discomfort. On the other hand, anxiety attacks usually involve a lot of worry, tight muscles, and restlessness. However, they don’t have the same intense physical crisis that panic attacks do. It’s helpful to understand these differences so we can better support ourselves and others.
• Triggers: Panic attacks can surprise us and happen at any time, even when we feel calm or are asleep. Anxiety attacks often arise when we are worried about something stressful or have been under stress for a while. It’s important to understand these experiences so we find ways to manage them better.

Physical and Emotional Impact:

• Panic Attacks: The physical symptoms are really intense, and some people might even feel like they’re having a heart attack. This creates a lot of fear about dying, losing control, or feeling overwhelmed. It’s important to acknowledge that after experiencing this, individuals may feel exhausted and a bit shaken. It’s okay to reach out for support during these tough times.
• Anxiety Attacks: Many people experience ongoing psychological distress, like persistent worry, which makes daily activities challenging. While the physical symptoms may not be as intense, they last longer, leading to feelings of fatigue and irritability. It’s important to acknowledge these feelings and seek support when needed.

Recognizing the differences between panic and anxiety attacks isn’t just about putting names to your experiences—it’s a step toward reclaiming your sense of control. When you can clearly describe what you’re going through, it opens the door to meaningful conversations with healthcare providers and loved ones, paving the way for personalized and effective treatment.

If managing these symptoms feels overwhelming, know that you’re not alone, and there is real, proven support available. With the right guidance and care, relief is possible, and taking this first step of understanding can make all the difference.

Anxiety affects personal relationships, often causing tension and misunderstandings. For further exploration of how anxiety might ruin relationships and effective strategies for managing these challenges, read Dr. Hollander’s detailed discussion.

Coping Strategies and Treatment Options

Managing panic and anxiety attacks can be much easier with the right strategies that fit your needs. By exploring different treatments and coping methods, you can find what works best for you. This can really improve your day-to-day life and help you feel more in control.

For Panic Attacks:

• Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT): This treatment is a great way to manage panic attacks. It helps you learn to change the thoughts and behaviors that lead to these episodes. With Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), you slowly challenge those irrational fears and become more comfortable in the situations that trigger your panic attacks.
• Exposure Therapy: Exposure therapy is a helpful part of cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT). It gently introduces you to the things that make you anxious, step by step, in a safe way. This process helps you feel more comfortable and confident in facing your fears.
• Medications: Sometimes, doctors may recommend medications like serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs) or selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) to help manage symptoms. These medications can be helpful in balancing mood and reducing panic attacks.

For Anxiety Attacks:

• Relaxation Techniques: You might find that techniques like deep breathing exercises as recommended by the American Psychological Association, progressive muscle relaxation, and guided imagery can be really helpful in managing the physical symptoms of anxiety attacks. These methods are simple to try and can make a positive difference in how you feel.
• Mindfulness Practices: Practicing mindfulness meditation is a great way to help you feel more present and calm. It lowers your anxiety and even helps you manage those moments when you start to feel overwhelmed.
• Regular Exercise: Physical activity is a powerful stress reliever. It not only improves physical health but also boosts mood and serves as a distraction from anxious thoughts.

In addition to the techniques mentioned above, individual therapy plays an important role in managing anxiety attacks. Dr. Susan Hollander explores the benefits of tailored therapy sessions for emotional wellness in her article. This piece is particularly helpful for those seeking to understand how personalized therapeutic interventions support their journey towards better mental health.

Professional Help:

• It’s really important to reach out to a mental health professional when you’re facing panic or anxiety attacks. A therapist like Dr. Susan Hollander creates a welcoming space for you and helps design a treatment plan that fits your unique situation. No matter if you’re struggling with panic or anxiety, therapy will give you helpful coping skills, emotional support, and practical strategies to manage and lessen your symptoms. 

Learn more about what to expect from therapy and how it is tailored to your needs with Dr. Susan Hollander.

Using these coping strategies and talking to a professional will help you handle stress and feel better. This leads to a happier and more balanced life. Remember, asking for help shows strength and is the first step on your journey to recovery.

When to Seek Help: A Simple Checklist

If you’re feeling symptoms of ongoing panic or anxiety attacks, consider using this checklist to see if it might be a good time to reach out for professional support:

Medical Emergency:

• Severe Chest Pain: Lasts more than a few minutes or comes and goes.
• Pain Spread: Extends to shoulders, neck, or arms.
• Additional Serious Symptoms: Includes profuse sweating, nausea, or severe weakness.

Seek immediate medical attention if you check any of these.

Symptoms of Panic or Anxiety Attacks:

• Increasing Frequency: Attacks are occurring more often.
• Growing Intensity: Difficulty managing daily activities due to the severity of attacks.
• Lifestyle Limitations: Avoiding situations for fear of an attack.

Consider professional help if any of these apply.

Benefits of Therapy:

• Persistent Worry or Anxiety: Constant anxiety interferes with daily routines.
• Physical Symptoms: Ongoing issues like muscle tension or sleep disturbances.
• Emotional Stress: The effort to manage symptoms is overwhelming.

Therapy can be beneficial if you experience any of the above.

For personalized strategies and support in managing panic and anxiety, visit Dr. Susan Hollander’s Anxiety Therapy Services. Confronting your mental health challenges marks a brave stride forward on the path to wellness.

As we’ve discussed the differences between panic and anxiety attacks, it’s important to remember that both are quite tough to deal with. But they have their own unique symptoms, triggers, and treatments. Knowing whether you are facing a panic or an anxiety attack is not just a technical detail; it’s a big step in finding the best ways to cope and get the help you need.

You’re not alone in your journey to understand and manage these health conditions. With the right support and knowledge, you’ll get through these challenges and find a more stable and peaceful life. Every step you take to understand your mental health brings you closer to a happier and more empowered version of yourself. Keep going!

Ready to Take Control of Your Mental Health?

If you’re looking to understand the differences between panic and anxiety attacks and want to build helpful coping strategies for anxiety, Dr. Susan Hollander is here for you. With her extensive experience in supporting people with their mental health, Susan provides personalized therapy sessions that focus on your individual needs.

Don’t let uncertainty, extreme anxiety, or fear hold you back. Reach out today to learn how therapy can transform your approach to managing anxiety and panic. Contact Dr Hollander directly on (303) 220-8400. Take that first step towards a more fulfilling and balanced life. Relief and understanding are just a conversation away.

How can I identify panic attack symptoms before they escalate?

Panic attack symptoms often come on suddenly and intensely, but recognizing early signs can help you respond effectively. Look for warning signs like a racing heart, shortness of breath, dizziness, or an overwhelming fear that something catastrophic is about to happen. These physical and emotional cues usually peak within minutes, but preparing for them can help you regain control.

What makes intense anxiety feel different from other types of stress?

Intense anxiety isn’t just about feeling worried—it often comes with a persistent sense of dread and physical symptoms like muscle tension, restlessness, or even nausea. Unlike fleeting stress, intense anxiety can linger for hours or days, disrupting your focus, sleep, and overall well-being. Recognizing these patterns can help you seek the right support.

Why do some people experience repeated panic attacks, and what does it mean?

Repeated panic attacks can indicate a condition called panic disorder, where the fear of having another attack becomes a cycle in itself. This ongoing worry can lead to changes in behavior, like avoiding places or activities associated with past episodes. Addressing this with therapy or treatment can break the cycle and restore confidence in daily life.

What are the symptoms of a panic that people often confuse with other conditions?

Symptoms of a panic attack, such as chest pain, sweating, or a sensation of choking, can be so intense that they’re mistaken for a heart attack or other medical emergencies. It’s important to understand that these are temporary physical reactions driven by heightened fear, and with proper techniques, they can be managed effectively.

What are the best first steps to treat anxiety effectively?

To treat anxiety, start by identifying your triggers and incorporating strategies like deep breathing, mindfulness, or physical exercise into your routine. For long-term management, therapies like cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) or prescribed medications can provide relief. Seeking guidance from a mental health professional ensures your approach is tailored to your needs.

If you have further questions about Dr Susan and her practice then check out the FAQ section.