A panic attack can be one of the most frightening experiences a person can have — many people are convinced they’re having a heart attack or about to die. Panic disorder is when these attacks recur and you begin to fear the next one. It’s common, and it’s very treatable.
What a panic attack feels like
A panic attack is a sudden surge of intense fear that peaks within minutes, with physical symptoms such as:
- Pounding or racing heart
- Shortness of breath or feeling smothered
- Chest tightness or pain
- Trembling, sweating or chills
- Dizziness or feeling faint
- A sense of unreality or detachment
- A feeling of losing control or dying
Because the symptoms are so physical, many people first present to an emergency department. For the difference between panic and everyday anxiety, see panic attack vs anxiety attack.
When it becomes panic disorder
Panic disorder is diagnosed when panic attacks recur and you develop persistent worry about having more, or change your behaviour to avoid them — sometimes avoiding places where escape feels difficult. This avoidance can grow and shrink your world over time.
Panic attacks are not dangerous
This is important: as terrifying as they feel, panic attacks are not physically dangerous and they do pass. Understanding this is itself part of recovery — a lot of the fear in panic disorder is fear of the fear.
Treatment
Panic disorder has excellent outcomes with treatment:
- CBT — highly effective, including learning that the sensations are not dangerous and reducing avoidance.
- Medication — where appropriate, prescribed and monitored by a doctor.
You can start with our anxiety self-check, read about our panic disorder care, or book a telehealth appointment with a referral. Our online psychiatry service is available Australia-wide.
This article is general information, not medical advice. In a crisis, call Lifeline on 13 11 14 or 000.