This is understandable, given that they share somecommon symptoms.
However, behavioral health professionals use these terms for specific symptoms and disorders, and they have different features.
Although intense anxiety symptoms can feel like an attack, “anxiety attack” is not a recognized diagnosis.
Verywell / Joshua Seong
This article discusses panic attacks vs. anxiety attackstheir similarities, differences, definitions, symptoms, and treatments.
Panic attacks usually peak at around 10 minutes while anxiety can last for months.
It is also possible to have a panic attack if you have no disorder.
The symptoms of anxiety may include the following.
Based on your evaluation, they may then make a diagnosis based on criteria found in the DSM-5.
Recap
Anxiety is a very common mental health condition that affects millions of Americans each year.
Doctors often utilize screening tools to check for symptoms of anxiety.
Find out which option is the best for you.
A Word From Verywell
Anxiety and panic attacks can potentially disrupt your everyday life.
Whether you or a friend or loved one experiences them, know that help is available.
Talking to a doctor about your symptoms is the first step to finding relief.
For more mental health resources, see ourNational Helpline Database.
National Institutes of Mental Health.Panic disorder: When fear overwhelms.
American Psychiatric Association.Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders.5th edition.
American Psychiatric Association; 2013.
National Institute of Mental Health.Anxiety disorders.
- doi:10.7326/M20-0580
Cleveland Clinic.Anxiety disorders: Diagnosis and tests.
