Panic disorder is characterized by recurrent, unexpected panic attacks — intense episodes of fear that occur suddenly and are accompanied by pronounced physical symptoms.
Phobias are persistent, excessive fears of specific situations or objects that objectively pose little or no danger. Those affected are usually aware that their fear is exaggerated, yet they are unable to control it voluntarily.
Both panic disorder and phobias can lead to pronounced avoidance behavior and significantly restrict daily life. Both conditions are highly treatable.
Symptoms
Typical symptoms of a panic attack:
Rapid heartbeat or palpitations
Shortness of breath or feeling of suffocation
Dizziness
Trembling or sweating
Tightness in the chest
Fear of losing control or dying
Attacks usually reach their peak within a few minutes.
Typical symptoms of phobias:
Intense fear when exposed to the triggering stimulus
Immediate physical stress reaction
Avoidance behavior
Anticipatory anxiety (fear of the fear itself)
Types
Panic disorder
With or without agoraphobia
Phobias
Specific phobias (e.g., heights, animals, flying)
Social phobia (social anxiety disorder)
Agoraphobia (fear of certain places or situations)
Accurate diagnosis is essential for treatment planning.
Causes
The development is usually based on an interaction of different factors:
Increased biological stress reactivity
Learning experiences (e.g., traumatic events)
Misinterpretation of physical symptoms
Psychosocial stressors
Avoidance behavior significantly contributes to the maintenance of symptoms.