However, they can occur with a variety of anxiety andmood disorders, as well as other medical conditions.
Panic attacks can also happen in response to specific events or stressful situations.
Panic attacks often last for a brief duration.
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However, the effects of a panic attack can linger for several hours following the initial attack.
Panic attacks involve a combination of emotional, cognitive, and physical symptoms.
For example, when experiencing a panic attack, a person may feel embarrassed or distraught over their symptoms.
A variety of somatic symptoms can occur, including sweating, shaking, and chest pain.
The person may fear that they might lose control of their body or mind.
Anxiety disordersare among the most common mental health conditions and affect women at about twice the rate of men.
Are All Panic Attacks the Same?
Not all panic attacks are experienced in the same way.
Having panic attacks does not necessarily mean that a person haspanic disorder.
Are Panic Attacks Treatable?
Panic attacks are a treatable symptom.
Psychotherapy can help you explore your fears and learn to manage your frightening physical sensations.
Helpful Coping Strategies
There are also numerous self-help strategies forgetting through a panic attack.
For more mental health resources, see ourNational Helpline Database.
American Psychiatric Association.Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 5th ed, 2013.
- doi:10.7326/M20-0580
National Institute of Mental Health.Anxiety Disorders.
