Although "panic attack" and "anxiety attack" are sometimes used interchangeably, they are different in terms of triggers, intensity, duration, and symptoms. Aspect Panic Attack Anxiety Attack Trigger Can occur suddenly, often without a clear trigger. Triggered by specific stressors (e.g., exams, conflicts). Onset Sudden and overwhelming; can feel like it's "out of nowhere." Gradual buildup of worry and distress over time. Intensity Intense and debilitating; feels extreme and overwhelming. Varies in intensity; usually less intense than a panic attack. Symptoms Primarily physical (e.g., racing heart, sweating, dizziness). Primarily emotional (e.g., worry, fear) but some physical signs may occur. Duration Typically peaks within 10 minutes and resolves within 30 minutes. Can last for a longer period (hours or even days). Fear of Danger May involve fear of dying or losing control Generally involves worry about a specific stressor. Link to Disorders Commonly associated with panic disorder. Common in generalized anxiety disorder or situational anxiety.
How to Deal with an Anxiety Attack in Students (Immediate) Stay Calm: Your calm demeanor reassures the student and prevents escalation. Speak softly and avoid making sudden movements. Provide a Safe Space: Remove the student from stressful situations (e.g., crowded classrooms). Offer a quiet place where they can recover, like the counselor’s office or a calming corner. Encourage Slow Breathing: Guide the student through deep breathing exercises to calm their nervous system. Example: Inhale for 4 seconds, hold for 4 seconds, and exhale for 6 seconds. Avoid rushing the process; let them breathe at their own pace. Reassure the Student: Use phrases like, "You’re safe," "This will pass," or "I’m here with you." Validate their feelings without judgment, e.g., "I can see you’re feeling overwhelmed, and that’s okay." Grounding Techniques: Help the student focus on the present moment by engaging their senses. Example: Ask them to identify 5 things they see, 4 things they feel, 3 things they hear, 2 things they smell, and 1 thing they taste.
Post-Attack Support: Normalize the Experience: Reassure the student that anxiety is a common experience and that it doesn’t define them. Encourage Reflection: Gently ask what they think triggered the episode and how they can cope better next time. Offer Tools for Coping: Introduce stress-management techniques, such as mindfulness, journaling, or drawing. Suggest physical activities like walking or stretching to release tension.
How to Respond to a Panic Attack (Immediate): Stay Calm and Reassuring: Speak softly and clearly. Use phrases like, “This will pass” or “You’re safe, and I’m here with you.” Encourage Slow Breathing: Guide them to take slow, deep breaths. Example: Inhale for 4 seconds, hold for 4 seconds, and exhale for 6 seconds. Ground Them in the Present: Use grounding techniques to help them feel in control. Example: Ask them to name 5 things they see, 4 things they can touch, 3 things they can hear, 2 things they can smell, and 1 thing they can taste. Give Space but Stay Nearby: Do not crowd them, but remain within sight to offer reassurance.
Quiz Recall the Symptoms of Anxiety and Panic Attacks Recall the Common Symptoms Scenario: Enact a panic attack and anxiety attack