Are Anxiety Attacks and Panic Attacks the Same Thing?

When people talk about feeling overwhelmed by fear or worry, they often use the words anxiety attack and panic attack interchangeably. But are they really the same thing?

The short answer is: no. While they share some similarities, there are important differences between anxiety attacks and panic attacks. Understanding these can help you recognize what you’re going through and seek the right kind of support.

Let’s explore this further together.

What Are Panic Attacks, and How Do They Feel?

Panic attacks are sudden episodes of intense fear that trigger severe physical reactions when there is no real danger. These attacks usually peak within minutes and can feel like a medical emergency, such as a heart attack.

Here’s what happens during a panic attack:

• Racing heartbeat
• Chest pain
• Trouble breathing
• Hot flushes or chills
• Trembling or shaking
• Feeling detached from reality
• Fear of losing control or dying

Panic attacks usually come out of nowhere — they’re often unexpected panic attacks. You might be sitting quietly and suddenly feel your body go into overdrive.

According to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) , published by the American Psychiatric Association, panic attacks can occur in response to specific triggers or seemingly out of the blue.

What About Anxiety Attacks? What Are They Like?

Anxiety attacks are different. They tend to build up over time and are often linked to stress or excessive worry about future events. For example, if you have an upcoming job interview or big test, you might experience an anxiety attack in the days leading up to it.

Some common anxiety attack symptoms include:

• Persistent anxiety
• Difficulty concentrating
• Restlessness
• Muscle tension
• Trouble sleeping
• Feeling anxious or on edge

Unlike panic attacks, which hit hard and fast, anxiety attacks may last for hours or even days. They are often tied to certain stressors — things like work pressure, relationship problems, or health concerns.

How Can I Tell If I’m Having an Anxiety Attack or a Panic Attack?

This is one of the most common questions people ask. The key lies in how quickly the symptoms appear and what causes them.

Panic attacks usually begin suddenly, without warning, and reach their peak within minutes. They often don’t have a clear trigger, making them feel unpredictable and scary.

Anxiety attacks, on the other hand, tend to build gradually. They are often connected to something you’re worried about, like an exam, a presentation, or a stressful situation. Their intensity may vary but tends to last longer than panic attacks.

If you’re wondering whether you experienced anxiety or panic attack, think about how quickly it came on and what was happening around you.

Can Both Anxiety and Panic Be Part of a Larger Mental Health Condition?

Yes, both types of attacks can be signs of underlying mental disorders. For example:

• Panic disorder involves repeated panic attacks and ongoing worry about having more.
• Anxiety disorders include generalized anxiety disorder, social anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and others.

These conditions are classified in the DSM-5 and are considered mental health conditions that can affect daily life.

Also, some people experience stressor-related disorders, like PTSD, where traumatic events trigger both anxiety and panic attacks.

It’s also possible to have both anxiety and panic attacks at different times, especially if you have a condition like panic disorder or generalized anxiety disorder.

What Causes These Attacks? Is It All in My Head?

While these attacks involve mental processes, they are very real and often rooted in biological and environmental factors.

Possible causes include:

• Genetics or family history
• Brain chemistry imbalances (like low serotonin or norepinephrine)
• Medical issues like thyroid problems or heart disease
• Trauma or stressful life events
• Substance use or withdrawal

It’s also important to note that medical conditions like heart palpitations or chest pain can mimic panic attack symptoms. That’s why seeing a healthcare provider is crucial before making any assumptions.

Sometimes, anxiety or panic can be caused by other health conditions. This is why getting a full checkup is a good idea if you’re experiencing regular attacks.

How Common Are Panic and Anxiety Attacks?

Very common. According to the National Institute of Mental Health, millions of adults in the U.S. experience anxiety or panic attacks every year.

In fact:

• About 2–3% of adults have panic disorder in a given year
• Nearly 20% of adults will experience an anxiety disorder at some point in their lives

And while these experiences are widespread, many people don’t talk about them because they feel embarrassed or misunderstood.

You’re not alone.

Do Panic and Anxiety Attacks Have Similar Symptoms?

Yes, they do. In fact, some symptoms overlap so much that it’s easy to confuse the two.

Common overlapping symptoms include:

• Shortness of breath
• Rapid heartbeat
• Sweating
• Nausea
• Dizziness

However, the main symptoms occur differently in each case. Panic attacks are more intense and sudden, while anxiety attacks are more prolonged and tied to worry.

Also, panic attacks often make you feel like something terrible is about to happen — like you’re going to die or lose control. With anxiety attacks, the fear is more about things that could go wrong in the future.

How Can I Cope When I Feel an Attack Coming On?

There are several strategies you can try to manage both panic and anxiety attacks:

Breathing Exercises:

Try the 4-7-8 method:

• Breathe in for 4 seconds
• Hold your breath for 7 seconds
• Exhale slowly for 8 seconds

This helps calm your nervous system and reduce the intensity of the attack.

Grounding Techniques:

Focus on your surroundings. Name five things you can see, four things you can touch, three things you can hear, two things you can smell, and one thing you can taste.

Mindfulness:

Practice mindfulness by staying present in the moment. This can help prevent spiraling thoughts.

Relaxation Techniques:

Progressive muscle relaxation, yoga, and guided imagery can all help ease symptoms.

These techniques won’t stop an attack instantly, but they can help bring you back to center and reduce the severity.

When Should I Seek Help From a Professional?

If your attacks are interfering with your daily life, it’s time to reach out to a mental health professional.

Signs you should get help include:

• Frequent panic or anxiety attacks
• Avoiding places or situations due to fear of an attack
• Trouble functioning at work or school
• Turning to alcohol or drugs to cope

Therapists often use treatments like cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) or exposure therapy to help people overcome these challenges.

Medications like serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs) or selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) may also be prescribed in some cases.

A healthcare provider can review your medical history, run tests, and determine if you need treatment for panic attacks, anxiety disorders, or other related mental health conditions.

Can I Prevent These Attacks From Happening?

While it’s hard to stop every attack, there are steps you can take to reduce their frequency and severity.

Lifestyle Changes:

• Get regular exercise
• Eat balanced meals
• Sleep well
• Stay hydrated
• Limit caffeine and alcohol

Manage Stress:

Find healthy ways to deal with stress, like journaling, talking to friends, or practicing meditation.

Know Your Triggers:

Keep a journal of when attacks happen and what you were doing beforehand. This can help you identify patterns and avoid or prepare for certain situations.

Build Support Systems:

Having someone to talk to makes a huge difference. Whether it’s a friend, family member, or therapist, support matters.

These habits can help you treat anxiety and panic in the long term, rather than just managing symptoms when they arise.

Are There Other Conditions That Cause Similar Symptoms?

Yes. Some medical conditions can mimic the symptoms of panic or anxiety attacks. These include:

• Heart problems like arrhythmia or heart attack
• Thyroid disorders
• Asthma or COPD
• Hypoglycemia (low blood sugar)

That’s why it’s important to rule out other health conditions before assuming it’s just anxiety or panic.

Also, some psychiatric disorders like obsessive-compulsive disorder or post-traumatic stress disorder can cause similar symptoms.

Always consult a healthcare provider to understand the full picture.

How Can Loved Ones Support Someone Going Through These Attacks?

Support from loved ones can make a world of difference. Here’s how to help:

• Listen without judgment
• Stay calm and reassuring
• Encourage professional help
• Learn about anxiety and panic disorders
• Be patient and understanding

Sometimes, just being there is enough.

Letting someone know you care can make a powerful impact. People dealing with anxiety or panic often feel isolated, so offering compassion can be healing.

Why Does Fear Overwhelm Us So Easily?

Our bodies are wired to respond to danger — it’s called the fight-or-flight response. This helped our ancestors survive in dangerous environments.

But in modern life, this system can sometimes misfire. When intense fear takes over, your body reacts as if you’re in real danger, even if you’re safe.

Understanding this can help normalize what you’re going through. It doesn’t mean you’re weak or broken — it means your brain is trying to protect you.

This natural survival mechanism can be triggered by both panic and anxiety, even if the threat isn’t real.

Is It Possible to Live a Normal Life After Panic or Anxiety Attacks?

Absolutely. Many people who experience panic or anxiety attacks go on to live full, happy lives.

With the right tools, support, and treatment, you can learn to manage stress, reduce symptoms, and regain control.

Remember: recovery isn’t about never feeling anxious again. It’s about learning how to handle those feelings when they arise.

You can continue working, building relationships, and enjoying life — even after repeated panic attacks or persistent anxiety.

Final Thoughts: You’re Not Alone

Whether you’ve had one panic attack or struggle with persistent anxiety, know that help is available. You don’t have to suffer in silence.

By understanding the difference between anxiety attack vs panic attack, you’ve already taken a powerful first step toward healing.

Take care of yourself, reach out when needed, and remember: you are stronger than you think.

Works Cited

American Psychiatric Association. Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders . 5th ed., American Psychiatric Publishing, 2013.

National Institute of Mental Health. “Anxiety Disorders.” www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/anxiety-disorders , Accessed 5 Apr. 2025.

National Institute of Mental Health. “Panic Disorder: When Fear Overwhelms.” www.nimh.nih.gov/health/publications/panic-disorder-when-fear-overwhelms , Accessed 5 Apr. 2025.

Mayo Clinic. “Panic Attacks and Panic Disorder.” Mayo Clinic , 19 Jan. 2023, www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/panic-disorders/symptoms-causes/syc-20376021 .

Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health. “Experiencing Anxiety or a Panic Attack?” Harvard University , 2021, www.hsph.harvard.edu/news/hsph-in-the-news/panic-attacks-anxiety/ .

Cleveland Clinic. “Panic Attack vs. Anxiety Attack: What’s the Difference?” Cleveland Clinic , 23 Feb. 2022, my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/17225-panic-attack-vs-anxiety-attack.

If you’re struggling with anxiety attacks, panic attacks, or overwhelming fear that interferes with your daily life, NY Choice Medical is here to help. Our compassionate team of healthcare professionals understands how intense anxiety and unexpected panic attacks can impact your well-being, and we’re committed to providing personalized care that addresses both the mental and physical symptoms. Whether you’re dealing with persistent anxiety, stressor-related disorders, or repeated panic attacks, we offer effective treatment options — from therapy and counseling to medical support — to help you regain control and live a calmer, healthier life. Don’t wait any longer; reach out to NY Choice Medical today and take the first step toward healing and recovery. Your mental health matters.

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