Panic Attacks/Panic Disorder
Panic attacks are a normal physical reaction to a perceived danger.
When we encounter danger, our bodies react to prepare us to either run or to fight the danger. Adrenaline is released into our system causing a number of physical reactions.
Without any provocation, we feel the same emotional and physical sensations we would if our lives were in jeopardy. The attacks seem to come out of thin air, in places where there is nothing to fear.
People with panic disorder or phobias react to dangers that are not there or are unrealistic. Seemingly with no cause our bodies go into panic mode. After the attack has ended we are often taken back by the intensity of what we experienced and we begin to worry that it will happen again.
The worry, also called anticipatory anxiety, becomes a part of the cycle of panic disorder. As the attacks continue to occur with the anticipatory anxiety in between attacks, we often begin to avoid the situations that we perceive as causing the attacks such as certain stores, social situations, work and driving on the highway.

One of the most difficult problems for individuals with panic disorder is getting the right diagnosis. The most common symptoms of a panic attack are:
• Heart palpitations, Sweating, Fear of dying, losing control or going crazy, Chest pain, Faintness, Dizziness, Trembling, Hot and cold flashes, Shortness of breath, Choking, Nausea, Tingling, Weakness, Feelings of unreality

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PAC is not a substitute for a doctor or therapy. If you're feeling suicidal please contact your doctor or local crisis team right away.