Psychology Guide
Understanding panic attacks
A panic attack can be frightening, while similar symptoms may also have medical causes.
Reading time
About 5 minutes
Content type
General information
Important
Not a substitute for diagnosis or treatment
Common symptoms
Palpitations, sweating, trembling, shortness of breath, dizziness, numbness, nausea and fears of losing control or dying may occur.
In the moment
Move somewhere safe, notice contact with the ground, name objects around you and allow breathing to slow without force. Paper-bag breathing is not recommended.
First or unusual symptoms
Severe chest pain, fainting, major breathing difficulty or other medical warning signs require urgent evaluation. Recurrent attacks and avoidance can be discussed with a mental health professional.
Source
See the NHS panic disorder guidance.