What’s The Difference Between An Anxiety Attack And A Panic Attack?

An anxiety attack refers to a build-up of excessive worry and fear, while a panic attack is a sudden surge of intense, overwhelming fear with physical symptoms. Although the terms could be used interchangeably a psychologist can help determine whether you suffer from panic attacks, panic disorder or another anxiety disorder.

TL;DR

  • Anxiety disorders, sometimes referred to as anxiety attacks develop gradually and are linked to stress or worry.

  • Panic attacks occur suddenly and often without a clear trigger.

  • Panic disorder is a recognised mental health condition involving recurring, unprovoked panic attacks.

  • Both anxiety and panic can be treated with evidence-based approaches like CBT and mindfulness therapies.

  • Clinical psychologists can help with assessment and recovery planning.

ANXIETY ATTACK VS PANIC ATTACK: KEY DIFFERENCES

It's common to hear the terms "anxiety attack" and "panic attack" used interchangeably, but they are not the same thing.

WHAT IS AN ANXIETY ATTACK?

"Anxiety attack" is not a formal clinical diagnosis, but it's a useful way to describe a period of intensified anxiety symptoms — usually in response to stress or a feared situation.

Common features:

  • Gradual onset (builds over minutes or hours)

  • Triggered by perceived stress or worry

  • Feelings of overwhelm, dread, or unease

  • May include physical symptoms like muscle tension, restlessness, or fatigue

WHAT IS A PANIC ATTACK?

A panic attack is a sudden, intense surge of fear or discomfort that peaks within minutes. It often feels like something terrible is happening — even if there's no danger.

Symptoms can include:

  • Chest pain, heart palpitations

  • Sweating, trembling

  • Shortness of breath or choking sensation

  • Nausea or dizziness

  • Fear of losing control, dying, or "going crazy"

  • Numbness or tingling sensations

WHAT IS PANIC DISORDER?

Panic disorder is a recognised mental health condition under the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5).

Diagnosis of panic disorder involves:

  • Recurrent, unexpected panic attacks

  • Persistent concern about future attacks or their consequences

  • Significant behavioural changes to avoid triggering attacks

According to Beyond Blue and the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Psychiatrists (RANZCP), panic disorder affects around 2–3% of Australians, with onset often in early adulthood.

SHARED SYMPTOMS: WHY THE CONFUSION HAPPENS

Both anxiety and panic can feel overwhelming, and they share several physical symptoms like:

  • Increased heart rate

  • Shortness of breath

  • Dizziness

  • Sweating

  • Nausea

But the timeline, intensity, and triggers help differentiate them:

  • Anxiety Attack: Gradual onset, triggered by stress, can last longer, intensity is moderate.

  • Panic Attack: Sudden onset, often no trigger, peaks quickly, intensity is extreme.

EVIDENCE-BASED TREATMENTS FOR PANIC DISORDER AND ANXIETY

1. COGNITIVE BEHAVIOURAL THERAPY (CBT)

CBT helps by:

  • Identifying unhelpful thinking patterns

  • Reducing avoidance behaviour

  • Teaching techniques to manage physical sensations and catastrophic thoughts

  • Gradual exposure to feared situations

2. ACT AND MINDFULNESS-BASED THERAPIES

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT) teach clients to observe anxious or panicky thoughts without reacting.

3. LIFESTYLE SUPPORT

  • Exercise: Cardio helps regulate stress hormones

  • Sleep: Establishing a regular sleep routine supports emotional regulation

  • Nutrition: Stabilising blood sugar and reducing caffeine can lower symptoms

  • Breathing and relaxation or grounding techniques: Useful in both anxiety and panic

A NOTE ABOUT MEDICATION

Medication is sometimes used in moderate to severe anxiety. Types include:

  • SSRIs (e.g. sertraline, escitalopram)

  • SNRIs

  • Benzodiazepines (short-term only due to dependence risk)

Medication should always be prescribed by a GP or psychiatrist and ideally paired with therapy.

WHEN TO SEE A PSYCHOLOGIST

You should consider seeking professional help if:

  • -You've had more than one panic attack

  • -You're avoiding situations for fear of having another attack

  • -Your anxiety is interfering with daily life

  • -You're using alcohol, food, or other substances to cope

  • -You're constantly worried about your health or "going crazy"

SUPPORT FOR PANIC ATTACKS IN SYDNEY

Equilibrium Psychology is a Sydney CBD-based clinic, just 3 minutes from Wynyard Station. We support adults across the inner city and nearby suburbs like Barangaroo, Pyrmont, Surry Hills, and Ultimo and beyond.

We also offer telehealth sessions for anyone across NSW or Australia.

WHY CHOOSE EQUILIBRIUM PSYCHOLOGY?

Established almost 20 years ago by clinical psychologist Gemma Cribb, our team of more than 20 experienced clinical psychologists registered with AHPRA, (plus Angel the therapy dog!) offer services that include:

  • -CBT, ACT, EMDR, and mindfulness therapy

  • -Practical, evidence based approaches

  • -Supportive, non-judgemental care

  • -Medicare rebates for eligible referrals

  • -Appointments after hours and via telehealth

  • -Experienced psychologists registered with AHPRA

  • -No waitlists

TAKE THE NEXT STEP

If panic attacks or anxiety are disrupting your life, we're here to help you get back in control.

👉 Send an enquiry online, or

📞 Call our friendly team on (02) 9262 6156 to discuss what support might be right for you.


*Last updated: July 2025*

NEED URGENT SUPPORT?

If you're feeling overwhelmed or need immediate help, please contact:

- Beyond Blue: 1300 22 4636

- Lifeline: 13 11 14

- In an emergency, call 000

These services are available 24/7 and can provide immediate support.


REFERENCES

- Beyond Blue. Panic Disorder. https://www.beyondblue.org.au

- Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Psychiatrists. Anxiety Disorders. https://www.ranzcp.org

Gemille Cribb