Panic Disorder vs. Generalized Anxiety
Panic disorder and Generalized Anxiety Disorder GAD are two of the most common forms of anxiety, but they are distinct conditions that are distinctly different. Panic disorder is characterized by periods of intense fear or dread accompanied by physical symptoms such as rapid heartbeat, sweating, trembling, nausea, difficulty breathing, chest pain, and/or dizziness. These symptoms, while they can be quite frightening, usually last for no more than a few minutes and occur only in certain situations.
In contrast, Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) is a chronic condition that is characterized by excessive worrying about everyday events or activities and difficulty controlling those worries, and constantly feeling tense and anxious. People with GAD often experience physical symptoms including muscle tension, fatigue, restlessness, and difficulty concentrating. They may also have difficulty sleeping or feel on edge most of the time.
Common symptoms associated with Panic Disorder include feelings of impending doom or danger, rapid breathing, racing heart rate, chest pain or discomfort, and/or a feeling of being out of control or going crazy. Symptoms associated with Generalized Anxiety Disorder include excessive worry and anxiety, difficulty concentrating or making decisions, restlessness, irritability, muscle tension, and difficulty sleeping.
Both Panic Disorder and Generalized Anxiety Disorders can lead to significant distress and impairment in various aspects of life including work/school performance, social situations, relationships, and physical health. With the right treatments, it is possible to manage these conditions and lead a happier and more fulfilling life.
What is Panic Disorder?
Panic disorder is a type of anxiety disorder in which people experience sudden, intense episodes of fear or distress. These episodes are known as panic attacks and can have physical, emotional, cognitive, and behavioral symptoms. To receive a diagnosis of panic disorder, an individual must experience recurrent unexpected panic attacks along with persistent worry about having additional attacks or changes in behavior due to fear or worry about having another attack.
The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) outlines the specific criteria for a panic disorder diagnosis, including recurrent unexpected panic attacks, symptoms such as heart palpitations and difficulty breathing, avoidance behavior due to fear or worry about having another attack, and intense physical sensations.
During a panic attack, individuals may experience physical symptoms such as chest pain, shortness of breath, increased heart rate, nausea or abdominal discomfort, dizziness, and feelings of detachment from the body. Cognitive symptoms such as fear of losing control or going crazy and fear of dying are also common during panic attacks. Emotional symptoms include feelings of terror or impending doom, and behavioral symptoms may include avoidance behavior due to fear of having another attack.
In addition to experiencing panic attacks, individuals with panic disorder often experience anticipatory anxiety about the possibility of having future attacks. This can lead to changes in behavior such as avoiding certain places or activities that may trigger an attack, which can have a negative impact on daily functioning and quality of life.
What is Generalized Anxiety?
Generalized anxiety is a pervasive type of anxiety disorder characterized by excessive and persistent worrying. People with generalized anxiety often struggle to control their worries, which can be intense, frequent, and difficult to manage. They may become preoccupied with everyday tasks or health concerns, which can lead to physical symptoms such as headaches, fatigue, or difficulty sleeping. The individual may feel extremely intense or nervous that they become easily frustrated and less able to concentrate. They may also struggle with relationship problems due to their anxiousness.
Generalized anxiety disorder is often linked to other mental health conditions such as depression or substance use disorders, and can have a significant impact on an individual’s quality of life. People with this condition may also experience panic attacks, which can be very distressing and may lead to avoidance of certain situations or activities.
Fortunately, treatment for generalized anxiety is available and usually involves a combination of therapy and medication. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is an evidence-based form of talk therapy that helps individuals identify patterns in their thinking or behavior that trigger their anxiety and then develop strategies to modify these patterns. Medication can also be used to help reduce the symptoms of anxiety, such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) or benzodiazepines. With the right treatment approach, an individual can reduce the intensity of feeling anxious and experience a better quality of life.
In conclusion, Panic Disorder and Generalized Anxiety have distinct characteristics that make them unique from one another. Panic Disorder is characterized by extremely intense or nervous answers with sudden fear and physical symptoms, while Generalized Anxiety is marked by someone who is prone to worrying or experiencing fear about everyday life situations. Both conditions can cause significant distress in one’s life, so it is important to seek help from a professional if either is suspected. With the right treatment, individuals can manage their symptoms and lead healthier, more fulfilling lives. What’s more, it can be beneficial to remember that you are not alone in your struggles with anxiety. With the proper support, help, and care from family and friends as well as professionals, individuals can find the strength to confront their fears and work toward a life with less anxiety.
Anew Era TMS and psychiatry have ushered in a variety of resources for those suffering from panic disorder and generalized anxiety disorder. TMS (Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation) is an FDA-approved, noninvasive therapy that utilizes magnetic pulses to stimulate areas of the brain associated with mood regulation. It is designed to help alleviate symptoms of panic and anxiety, such as fear and tension. Psychiatrists may also use cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) to help patients cope with their symptoms by changing the way they think about certain situations that cause them distress.
For those experiencing a debilitating level of anxiety or panic disorder, there are organizations available to provide more in-depth support. The Anxiety and Depression Association of America (ADAA) offers resources for anxiety and panic disorder, as well as general information about the condition and a diagnostic and statistical manual. Additionally, NAMI (the National Alliance on Mental Illness) provides a variety of programs and services to individuals living with mental illness.
You are not alone, Anew Era TMS & Psychiatry makes treatment plans unique to you. Take our quiz and begin to understand your symptoms or get a free consultation and start feeling better today!
