If you are a bit of a worrier, but some days just seem particularly overwhelming, your breathing gets shallow, and you cannot focus, then what you are most likely having is an anxiety attack. However, if youre feeling fine and then, for no apparent reason, your heart starts to race, you cant catch your breath, and you need to sit down because you are feeling ill, then you are most likely having a panic attack.
Even though they share similar symptoms, anxiety attacks and panic attacks are two different experiences, explains , director of 做厙TV Langones Steven A. Cohen Military Family Center and clinical assistant professor in the . The difference between the two is about the suddenness of the feelingsusually (but not always) people who get panic attacks will feel OK before it happens, she says.
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is the most effective treatment for anxiety disorders, including panic disorder and generalized anxiety disorder, which often lead to panic attacks and what people refer to as anxiety attacks. Medication management is also an option. In the moment, breathing exercises can be effective to de-escalate anxiety symptoms. Its very helpful to have your exhale be longer than your inhale to restore the balance of CO2 and oxygen in your body, Dr. Spray says.
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