Panic Attack vs Anxiety Attack

What’s the Real Difference?

Have you ever found yourself suddenly overwhelmed by fear, your heart racing like you just sprinted a marathon but you’re standing perfectly still? Maybe you’ve had a moment where worry seemed to build up so heavily it felt like you couldn’t breathe. Whether you call it a panic attack or an anxiety attack, one thing’s for sure: it’s terrifying.

But here’s the thing even though people often use the terms interchangeably, panic attacks and anxiety attacks aren’t exactly the same. Understanding the difference can help you make sense of what’s happening to you and find the best ways to cope.

What Is a Panic Attack?

A panic attack comes out of nowhere. One minute you’re doing fine, the next you’re hit with an intense wave of fear that feels physical and urgent. It’s often described as feeling like a heart attack, which is why so many people end up in emergency rooms during their first one.

What are some of the Common symptoms of a panic attack:

• Pounding or racing heart
• Sweating
• Trembling or shaking
• Shortness of breath
• Chest pain or discomfort
• Dizziness or lightheadedness
• Nausea
• Fear of losing control or dying

Panic attacks are sudden and usually peak within about 10 minutes, though it can feel much longer when you’re in the middle of it. They aren’t always triggered by something specific; sometimes they just hit without warning.

What Is an Anxiety Attack?

Instead, “anxiety attack” is more of a casual term people use to describe periods of intense anxiety.

Anxiety builds over time. It’s usually tied to something stressful a big exam, relationship problems, money issues, or health concerns. The symptoms of an anxiety attack are similar to those of a panic attack, but they tend to be less intense and more related to worrying thoughts.

What can be some of the Common symptoms of an anxiety attack:

• Feeling tense or nervous
• Restlessness
• Increased heart rate
• Difficulty concentrating
• Trouble sleeping
• Feeling overwhelmed
• Irritability

Anxiety attacks can last longer sometimes hours or even days and are often connected to ongoing worries rather than a sudden sense of doom.

What are some of the Key Differences between both?

Why Does It Matter?

Understanding whether you’re dealing with panic or anxiety is important because the treatment approaches might differ slightly. Panic attacks can sometimes be part of a condition called Panic Disorder, while chronic anxiety could point to Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) or another anxiety-related condition.

Final Thoughts

We at Mentoring Minds Counsellors understand that Whether it’s a panic attack or an anxiety attack, what you’re experiencing is real, and you’re not alone. It doesn’t mean you’re weak or broken it just means you’re human. And with the right support, you can absolutely get through it.