Anxiety Attack vs. Panic Attack: What’s the Difference?

If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by fear, racing thoughts, or physical symptoms like a pounding heart or shortness of breath, you may have wondered: Was that an anxiety attack or a panic attack? While these terms are often used interchangeably, they refer to two different—though sometimes overlapping—experiences.

Understanding the difference can help you make sense of your symptoms and find the right support and tools to cope.

What Is an Anxiety Attack?

“Anxiety attack” isn’t an official clinical term, but it’s commonly used to describe a period of heightened anxiety or worry. It tends to build gradually in response to a stressor or ongoing concern.

Characteristics of an Anxiety Attack:

·      Often related to a specific situation or thought (e.g., a work presentation, relationship tension, financial stress)

·       Builds up over time

·       Can last minutes to hours—or longer

·       Symptoms may include: Racing thoughts, Muscle tension, rouble concentrating, Irritability, Trouble sleeping, Rapid heartbeat or shallow breathing

Anxiety attacks are often your body’s way of staying alert in the face of perceived danger or pressure. They're more connected to ongoing stress than sudden, unexpected fear.

What Is a Panic Attack?

Panic attacks are more acute. They come on suddenly and often feel like they strike “out of the blue”—even if there’s an underlying trigger.

According to the DSM-5, a panic attack is a sudden surge of intense fear or discomfort that peaks within minutes and includes at least four of the following symptoms:

·       Heart palpitations or accelerated heart rate

·       Sweating

·       Trembling or shaking

·       Shortness of breath

·       Feelings of choking

·       Chest pain

·       Nausea or abdominal discomfort

·       Dizziness or lightheadedness

·       Chills or hot flashes

·       Numbness or tingling

·       Feelings of unreality or detachment

·       Fear of losing control or “going crazy”

·       Fear of dying

Panic attacks can feel terrifying and are sometimes mistaken for a heart attack. Even though they aren’t dangerous, they can leave someone feeling exhausted and fearful of having another.

Why Does the Distinction Matter?

Knowing the difference helps you better understand your body’s response—and how to care for yourself. For example:

·       Anxiety management often includes long-term strategies like therapy, mindfulness, exercise, and boundaries around stress.

·       Panic disorder may require targeted interventions like CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy) or exposure therapy.

Both experiences are valid, and both are treatable.

When to Seek Support

If you’re frequently experiencing intense anxiety or panic, or if it’s interfering with your daily life, you don’t have to navigate it alone. Therapy can help you understand your symptoms, identify triggers, and learn tools to regulate your nervous system and restore a sense of safety in your body.

You are not broken—your body is responding to stress in the best way it knows how.
With support, you can regain a sense of calm and control. If you feel you need more support in knowing the difference or coping with anxiety or panic attacks, I specialize in helping people with anxiety, and I’d love to support you on your journey. If you are ready for specialized support, please feel free to reach out. You can call me at (424) 231-5877 or send me a note here.