A panic attack is an intense episode of fear or physical discomfort that peaks within minutes. It includes sensations such as heart palpitations, difficulty breathing, dizziness, and feelings of impending doom or loss of control. Despite being terrifying, it poses no physiological danger; the body activates its alarm response to a perceived threat.
Concept origin
Klein (1964) first described panic attacks as a syndrome distinct from chronic anxiety. Clark's (1986) cognitive model explains the cycle: catastrophic misinterpretation of normal physical sensations triggers further arousal.
How it manifests
- ▸ Palpitations, racing heart, or pounding chest
- ▸ Shortness of breath or feeling of choking
- ▸ Dizziness, unsteadiness, or near-fainting
- ▸ Fear of dying, "going crazy," or losing control
Therapeutic approach
Psychoeducation about the fear-sensation-fear cycle is the first step. Interoceptive exposure (deliberately inducing physical sensations like dizziness to desensitize) and restructuring catastrophic interpretations are the treatment pillars.
Related concepts
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