In everyday language, the lines blur when talking about panic attack vs anxiety attack. In reality, there are distinct differences. Are you struggling with these types of conditions? Help is possible; here’s what you need to know.
Panic Attack vs Anxiety Attack
A panic attack can happen at any moment. You feel fine. You’re going through your day as you usually do. Suddenly, there’s a feeling of panic.
It comes without provocation. Nothing bad happened. You didn’t watch something on TV or hear something on the radio that triggered you. It just suddenly starts.
You feel a growing terror. There’s a sense of fear that’s difficult to explain to someone. Some people experience co-occurring physiological symptoms such as chest pains or difficulty breathing. The panic attack leaves you in fear of suffering another one.
In contrast, anxiety attacks don’t have an official definition. Instead, it’s a colloquial term that people with anxiety often use to describe how their disorder impacts their life. If a person’s anxiety is particularly stifling in one particular moment, she may describe it as an anxiety attack vs a panic attack.
With anxiety, it’s less about intense fear and more about constant worry. This worry often surrounds relationships, events, and things that may not even happen. Anxiety generally comes with specific stressors, while panic attacks can pop up at any time.
How Anxiety and Panic Interfere with Your Life
In the panic attack vs anxiety attack discussion, the panic portion is by far more worrisome. Because you can’t control its onset, you may try to avoid situations where it may happen. If you have a panic attack while walking your dog, you might quit doing so.
Because the anxiety had a specific stressor that went hand in hand with it, you try to avoid it. With panic attacks, there isn’t a well-defined stressor to prevent. Rather, you begin to stay away from the public. After all, you don’t want others to be around when you struggle with another attack.
The next attack may be months or even years away. Even so, you begin to stay at home. You think that you can avoid the emotional distress. However, did you know that both conditions respond well to professional assistance?
How to Deal with the Potential of the Attacks
Psychological intervention is an excellent way to deal with underlying conditions that cause them. Possible assistance includes:
- Anxiety or panic attack therapy that focuses on how to manage the situation at the time
- Psychological care for anxiety disorders
- Assessment for pharmacological support and medication management
- Program participant education that empowers you to feel in control
- Individualized care protocols that focus on your unique needs
- Flexible appointments that work around your schedule and make program participation convenient
Don’t lose yourself in the panic attack vs anxiety attack debate. Both anxiety disorders and panic disorders are treatable. Contact PACE Mental Health Houston today by dialing 866.971.8423 now.
