Are you having an Anxiety Attack?

Anxiety attacks can be extremely debilitating, and while many of those with panic disorders experience them often, it can happen to anyone. These episodes can be hard to pin down and understand, especially in a moment of stress. Understanding the symptoms and knowing what to look out for can be crucial in a time of need.

Physical symptoms of an anxiety attack can include:

• Chest pain
• Difficulty breathing
• Trouble concentrating
• Rapid heartbeat

Psychological symptoms of an anxiety attack can include:

• Derealization (loss of touch with reality)
• Feelings of helplessness
• “Disaster thinking”, involving uncontrollably imagining situations like car crashes or collapsing in a dangerous place (Abraham)

While there are no specific causes for anxiety attacks, they are understood to be a combination of biological vulnerabilities, ways of thinking, and environmental factors like social stressors (Edwards). Anxiety attacks can be caused by a stressful situation, receival of tragic news, or sometimes nothing at all. Keeping a pulse on your physical and emotional state can help you stay in control.

Citation:
1. “How to Tell If You Are Having an Anxiety Attack.” Calm Clinic - Information about Anxiety, Stress and Panic, 10 Oct. 2020, www.calmclinic.com/anxiety/attacks/how-to-tell. 
2. Roxanne Dryden-Edwards, MD. “Panic Attack: Symptoms, Treatment, Medication.” MedicineNet, MedicineNet, 28 Mar. 2023, www.medicinenet.com/panic_disorder/article.htm. ​

Click to view and/or download our handy guide for recognizing and helping with anxiety.