Understanding the difference between anxiety and panic attacks
Back to the journalAnxiety & Stress

Anxiety Attack vs. Panic Attack: Understanding the Differences

CHC Counseling TeamSep 25, 20246 min read
In this article▾
  1. What is an Anxiety Attack?
  2. What is a Panic Attack?
  3. Key Differences Between the Two
  4. When to Seek Professional Help
  5. Treatment Options

What is an Anxiety Attack?#

An anxiety attack, while not a formal clinical term, generally refers to a period of intense worry, apprehension, or fear that builds gradually in response to a perceived stressor. Symptoms may include restlessness, muscle tension, difficulty concentrating, irritability, and sleep disturbances. Anxiety attacks are typically linked to a specific trigger and tend to build over time rather than striking suddenly.

What is a Panic Attack?#

A panic attack is a sudden episode of intense fear that triggers severe physical reactions when there is no real danger or apparent cause. Panic attacks are clinically recognized in the DSM-5 and can be diagnosed. Symptoms peak within minutes and include heart palpitations, chest pain, shortness of breath, dizziness, numbness, a sense of unreality, and intense fear of dying or losing control.

Key Differences Between the Two#

The primary differences lie in onset, intensity, duration, and triggers. Panic attacks strike suddenly and intensely, typically peaking within 10 minutes and subsiding within 20 to 30 minutes. Anxiety attacks build gradually and can last for extended periods. Panic attacks can occur without an obvious trigger, while anxiety attacks are generally tied to a specific stressor. Panic attack symptoms are typically more severe and physically overwhelming.

When to Seek Professional Help#

You should seek professional help if anxiety or panic attacks occur frequently, interfere with your daily life, cause you to avoid situations or activities, or if you live in constant fear of the next episode. If you experience chest pain, difficulty breathing, or believe you may be having a heart attack, seek immediate medical attention to rule out physical causes. Both conditions are highly treatable with proper professional support.

Treatment Options#

Both anxiety and panic attacks respond well to treatment. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy is highly effective for both conditions, helping you identify and change thought patterns that fuel the attacks. Exposure therapy can reduce avoidance behaviors. Mindfulness and relaxation techniques provide immediate relief during episodes. Medication may be recommended for severe or persistent symptoms. With treatment, most people experience significant reduction in the frequency and severity of attacks.

Written by the CHC Counseling Team — licensed therapists serving Alpharetta, Johns Creek, and all of Georgia via teletherapy.

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CHC offers in-person therapy in Alpharetta and teletherapy across all 159 Georgia counties. Most major insurance accepted.

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