Panic Attack vs Anxiety Attack

Have you ever been so caught up with something then all of a sudden you terjem. Sometimes your heart beats extremely fast and you can’t breathe. Have you ever wondered what could it be? Most people will either classify this as a panic or an anxiety attack. But, did you know there’s a difference between the both?

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Based on Charlotte’s Web Library, Malaysia has the highest rate of anxiety in Southeast Asia, coming in at number 52 globally with 4.88% of the population experiencing anxiety. According to this figure, 1,610,400 Malaysians experience some level of anxiety, underscoring the significance of addressing this problem and caring for our mental health.

What’s the difference between panic and anxiety attacks?

Since they share similar symptoms, the terms anxiety attack and panic attack have been used interchangeably. Both behavioral patterns are different from one another, though.

An intense surge of fear or discomfort that comes on suddenly, along with other physical and mental symptoms, is known as a panic attack. Panic attacks are episodic and usually peak in a few minutes or hours.

On the other hand, anxiety is a natural part of the body’s emotional and defense mechanisms. It turns into a problem when it lasts for a long time, is excessive, and interferes with daily life; in that case, it is referred to as an anxiety disorder. The term “anxiety attack” is not a recognized diagnosis, despite the fact that severe anxiety symptoms can feel like an attack.

The shared symptoms person might feel while having a panic/anxiety attack are increased heartbeat, sudden sweats, shortness of breath, and/or hands trembling. But there are other things that set these two disorders apart.

Panic/anxiety attacks can happen to anyone almost at any time. Some individuals may have very small waves of it while others may have a full-blown attack.

How to manage a panic/anxiety attack?

Though the causes and symptoms can differ, people who are well aware of their triggers would have ways to cope with their panic/anxiety attacks. But if you’re just realizing what’s happening to you, here are some common tips that you can use to help you cope with your anxiety and panic attacks.

There’s nothing to be ashamed of

If you are someone who experiences panic or anxiety attacks, you do not have to feel shy to admit it. By letting people know your mental health condition, will make it easier for them to help you when you have an attack. It isn’t a sign of weakness. It’s just that sometimes things that happen to you are overwhelming you may get scared. This writer is prone to both panic and anxiety attacks. And one of our interns is socially anxious.

This occurrence is quite common, it’s just that we do not talk about it. Try speaking to your friends with an open mind, and you’ll come to see we all go through some levels of panic/anxiety attacks. What sets us apart is our coping mechanism.

If you know someone or you are going through anxiety or panic attacks, you may reach out to MIASA or contact them at 1800 180 066