Understanding Anxiety and Panic

We all have experienced anxiety to some degree in our lives. To a certain extent, Anxiety is normal, natural and healthy. But anxiety can overwhelm us and escalate into panic. In this blog post, let’s discuss anxiety and panic

What is Anxiety?

Anxiety is traditionally described as a mood characterised by worry and negative events in the future. In other words, anxiety involves feeling nervous, apprehensive and unease about events/situations that may occur in the future.

Physically, Anxiety can feel like:

• Pit in your stomach
• Racing heart rate
• Sweating
• Diarrhoea
• Nausea

Psychologically, Anxiety can feel like:

• Racing thoughts
• Worry
• Dread
• Nervousness
• Fear
• Irritability

Anxiety can feel very similar to fear. However, fear differs in that as it focuses on an immediate threat. As an example, I may feel anxious about a public speaking engagement I have in the future. Whereas if I see a spider next to me, I may experience fear. This fear may cause me to leave the room.

What is Panic?

Panic is a sudden and abrupt surge of fear and discomfort that reaches a peak within minutes. We usually refer to this as a panic attack. Panic can occur out of the blue, or often due to a trigger.

During a panic attack, an individual may experience:

• Feeling like they are going to die, or lose control
• Pounding heart
• Struggling to breath, or feeling like they are choking
• Chest discomfort
• Nausea or abdominal distress
• Dizziness
• Hot or cold sensations
• And more

Anxiety differs from panic in that anxiety is a longer and less intense experience. Although, that does not mean one is better than the other. They are both unpleasant experiences and can have a significant effect on our lives.  

Anyone can experience anxiety and panic. They are part of the human experience, although not enjoyable. Anxiety and panic may be caused by genetics, personality traits, past trauma, and substances. They also often co-occur with depression. Anxiety and panic are treatable. Through psychotherapy, individuals can learn to manage anxiety and panic so they do not overwhelm and take over. Therapies such as CBT are very effective for anxiety and panic.

If you would like to find out more about booking a session, please contact me at Thrive.