Hi everyone! What is the difference between a panic attack and an anxiety attack? Or are they the same? Anxiety often builds gradually over a period of time. You might notice yourself worrying, feeling tense or restless, overthinking and feel “on edge”. Your body may show it too: through muscle tension, an upset stomach, or a racing heart. People with anxiety often say: “I can’t stop thinking about it.” “I just feel on edge all the time.” An “anxiety attack” is not a formal diagnosis used in clinical practice. In my understanding, it is a term used to describe a period of heightened or overwhelming anxiety. In contrast to anxiety, panic attacks can come on suddenly, may seem to strike out of nowhere and feel incredibly intense. Panic attacks usually reach their peak within minutes. You may have strong palpitations, tightening in your chest, feel dizzy, shaky, short of breath, or convinced something terrible is happening. Many people think they’re having a heart attack and that they are going to die. Anxiety and panic have a lot in common: Both activate the fight‑or‑flight response. Both feel frightening. Both can lead people to avoid situations that feel unsafe. And most importantly, both are treatable conditions. Reach out for help. Disclaimer: If you are experiencing new, severe, or unexplained symptoms, especially chest pain or difficulty breathing, seek medical assessment immediately, rather than assume it is panic. You can follow me on Facebook and watch the video below.
