While many people conflate the two terms, anxiety and panic attacks are two completely different phenomena. However, both can be tied to the presence of mental disorders, and so it's important to understand the difference between a panic attack and an anxiety attack. In this article we'll explore both of these challenges, as well as share evidence-based treatments that can improve symptoms and quality of life.
Mental health is a crucial aspect of overall well-being, and understanding the difference between anxiety attacks and panic attacks can be essential for effective treatment. Anxiety and panic attacks are two distinct conditions that can have a significant impact on daily life, causing intense anxiety, fear, and physical symptoms.
According to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5), panic disorder is a recognized mental health condition, while anxiety attacks are not officially diagnosed. Mental health professionals play a vital role in diagnosing and treating anxiety and panic disorders, helping individuals manage symptoms and improve their quality of life.
Anxiety attacks is not a clinical term, but may be used by providers to refer to episodes of intense anxiety that can cause physical and emotional symptoms. Anxiety attacks often build gradually, triggered by specific stressors or worries, and can be a symptom of underlying anxiety disorders. Symptoms of anxiety attacks can include:
An anxiety attack may last for a few days up to a few months, with symptoms increasing or decreasing at intervals over this time period. Understanding the difference between anxiety attacks and panic attacks is crucial for developing effective treatment plans and managing symptoms.
Panic attacks are sudden episodes of intense fear and physical symptoms, often occurring without a clear trigger or warning. A panic attack typically lasts for a few minutes up to an hour or two. Symptoms of a panic attack can include:
The symptoms of a panic attack are often mistaken for a heart attack. Physical symptoms of panic attacks can be severe and debilitating, causing individuals to feel like they are losing control. Unexpected panic attacks can be a symptom of panic disorder, a mental health condition characterized by repeated panic attacks and fear of future attacks.
Panic disorder is a recognized mental health condition that can be diagnosed using the DSM-5 criteria. Anxiety disorders, such as obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), can also increase the risk of experiencing panic attacks.
Certain health conditions, such as thyroid problems, may contribute to panic attack symptoms. Understanding the underlying health conditions that contribute to panic attacks is essential for developing effective treatment plans.
The main difference between a panic attack and an anxiety attack is the severity and onset of symptoms. Panic attacks are sudden and intense, often occurring without a clear trigger, while anxiety attacks build gradually and are triggered by specific stressors.
Mental health professionals can help individuals understand the difference between panic attacks and anxiety attacks and develop strategies for managing symptoms.
At Williamsburg Therapy Group, our team of doctoral-level psychotherapists in Fulton Market allows you to work with a trained professional that can create a treatment plan and offer a variety of practical strategies, healthy coping skills, and techniques that will allow you to reduce the symptoms of social anxiety disorder and help you to experience a greater quality of life.
Never ignore or minimize signs of social anxiety disorder. With the right support, it’s possible to successfully treat even severe anxiety and reduce or eradicate panic attacks, improving overall well-being. If you have been thinking about seeking help, reach out to our customer service coordinator to get matched with a professional who can offer tools and strategies to manage social anxiety anxiety disorder, and help you get back to living life your way.