Do I Have Panic Disorder? A Self-Assessment

A panic attack is a sudden surge of intense fear that peaks within minutes, with a pounding heart, shortness of breath, dizziness or a feeling that something terrible is about to happen. Panic disorder is when the attacks keep coming and the fear of the next one starts to run your life. This self-assessment covers the experiences clinicians ask about when evaluating panic disorder. Answer about the past month.

This self-assessment is for information only. It is not a diagnostic tool and cannot replace an evaluation by a licensed mental health professional. If you are in crisis or thinking about harming yourself, call or text 988 or call 911.

Panic Disorder Self-Assessment

The attacks

Have you had sudden episodes of intense fear or discomfort that peaked within minutes and included several of the following?

1. Pounding or racing heart
2. Sweating, trembling or shaking
3. Shortness of breath or a choking feeling
4. Chest pain or tightness
5. Nausea or stomach distress
6. Dizziness, lightheadedness or feeling faint
7. Chills or hot flushes; numbness or tingling
8. Feeling detached from yourself or that things are not real
9. Fear of losing control, “going crazy,” or dying

The pattern

1. Have some of these attacks come out of the blue, without an obvious trigger?
2. For a month or more after an attack, have you worried persistently about having another one or about what the attacks mean (heart attack, losing control)?
3. Have you changed your behavior because of the attacks: avoiding exercise, crowds, driving, being alone or leaving home?

What Your Answers May Mean

Panic disorder is diagnosed when a person has recurrent unexpected panic attacks (with four or more of the symptoms listed) and at least a month of persistent worry about further attacks or behavioral change because of them. If that describes you, an evaluation is worthwhile; panic disorder responds well to treatment. Only a licensed clinician can make the diagnosis, and because panic symptoms overlap with heart, thyroid and breathing conditions, a medical check is often part of the evaluation. Panic attacks also occur in other anxiety disorders, PTSD and during alcohol or drug withdrawal.

What Panic Disorder Is

Panic disorder affects about 2 to 3 percent of adults each year and often begins in early adulthood. Left untreated it can lead to agoraphobia, depression and substance use, as alcohol and sedatives are often used to prevent attacks. Learn more about panic disorder and agoraphobia.

How Panic Disorder Is Treated

• Cognitive behavioral therapy, including interoceptive exposure (deliberately practicing the physical sensations of panic until they lose their power), the best-supported treatment
• Medication, usually SSRIs or SNRIs; benzodiazepines are generally avoided for ongoing use because of dependence
• Treatment of co-occurring substance use in the same plan
• Intensive programs when panic is disabling or paired with depression or substance use

See non-addictive anxiety medications, online counseling and inpatient mental health treatment.

Want to talk to someone about your results? Our admissions team can arrange a confidential assessment with a licensed clinician and explain treatment options, from outpatient therapy to inpatient care. Verify your insurance or call any time.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can a panic attack hurt me?

Panic attacks are frightening but not dangerous in themselves. Because the symptoms overlap with heart problems, a first episode should be checked medically.

Is one panic attack panic disorder?

No. Many people have an isolated attack. Panic disorder involves repeated unexpected attacks plus ongoing worry or avoidance.

Can alcohol or drugs cause panic attacks?

Yes. Stimulants, cannabis and withdrawal from alcohol or benzodiazepines commonly trigger panic.

Does insurance cover treatment for panic disorder?

Most plans cover mental health treatment under parity law. Verify your coverage in minutes.