Panic Attack Vs Anxiety Attack: What's The Difference?

Panic and anxiety. If you have ever experienced either, you know they are both no joke. Leaving you ineffective, crippled, rooted to the ground or wanting to flee from the scene.  Sometimes you wish there could be a panic button that would transport you directly from a busy, public place directly to the safety of your home. Well, no such luck yet, unfortunately, but the next best thing can be becoming informed of the internalized trouble you experience causing your discomfort and anxiety.

We're all social beings, but some of us have an easier time than others in social situations. While life comes at us all with startling life circumstances to either acclimate to or take steps to battle, some folks are more apt to rise to the challenge than others. But what's the different between someone who feels crippled by fear and  overbearing thoughts, versus someone who approaches life, facing failure and perhaps making mistakes, without losing the bounce in his or her step? And how can the feelings of those who experience panic and anxiety attacks be better understood, and supported by others?

To start, let's identify the characteristics of a panic attack and anxiety attack, because although they sound the same, and are in fact similar, there are some key differences to note, according to the MayoClinic.

Panic Attack"A sudden episode of intense fear that triggers severe physical reactions when there is no real danger or apparent cause. They may cause one to feel out-of-control or as though they are dying and may happen once or twice in life for most people, or more often for those with chronic cases."

Anxiety Attack"Characterized by intense and persistent worry or fear about everyday situations involving repeated episodes of sudden intense feelings of anxiety and fear or terror, reaching peak within minutes. They may cause people to avoid people, places or situations to prevent these feelings."

What They Have in Common: Both affect sleep, concentration, and functioning in public, affecting quality of life dramatically if untreated.

The main difference: Panic attacks are usually seldom and one-off experiences triggered by major events, while anxiety attacks are more constant, and may be triggered by everyday events.

How to dealTraditionally, both can be treated by medications and forms of talk therapy. If you'd like to explore alternative homeopathic remedies, you can try inositol for panic attacks, a natural supplement known to induce relaxation, or sitting meditation.