What does it feel like when you have a panic attack?

As a mental health professional, I can describe the experience of a panic attack based on the accounts of those who have experienced them. A panic attack is a sudden and intense episode of anxiety and fear. During a panic attack, individuals often report a variety of symptoms that can be both physical and emotional. Here's a step-by-step description of what it might feel like: 1. Palpitations: The heart may race, which can feel like it's pounding or about to jump out of the chest. 2. Breathing difficulties: People often experience shortness of breath or feel like they can't catch their breath. 3. Dizziness or lightheadedness: The person may feel unsteady or faint. 4. Nausea: A feeling of sickness in the stomach can occur. 5. Chills or heat sensations: Some individuals feel a sudden wave of cold or heat. 6. Numbness or tingling sensations: Pins and needles or a feeling of numbness can be present in the limbs or face. 7. Fear of losing control or going crazy: There's often an intense fear that accompanies the physical symptoms. 8. Fear of dying: The physical symptoms can be so severe that the person feels as if they are having a heart attack or are dying. 9. Derealization or depersonalization: Feeling detached from oneself or the environment. 10. Choking sensation: A feeling that one is unable to breathe or swallow properly. The experience is highly distressing and can last for several minutes, during which time the person may believe they are in grave danger. It's important to note that while the symptoms are terrifying, panic attacks are not dangerous and do not cause long-term harm, though they can lead to panic disorder if they occur frequently.

A panic attack is a sudden surge of overwhelming anxiety and fear. Your heart pounds and you can't breathe. You may even feel like you're dying or going crazy. Left untreated, panic attacks can lead to panic disorder and other problems.