October 4, 2023

Panic Attack vs. Anxiety Attack Quiz

Kristie Plantinga

,

MA

woman of south asian descent sits at a desk looking stressed; panic attack vs anxiety attack quiz

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October 4, 2023

5 min to read

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If you've experienced intense (and sometimes disturbing) moments of fear and worry, you're not alone. In the therapy world, these are referred to as "panic attacks" or "anxiety attacks."

Anxiety attacks and panic attacks are common experiences, but they're generally misunderstood. They're sometimes referred to interchangeably, even though they're different.

So which one are you experiencing? Our "Anxiety Attack vs. Panic Attack Quiz" will help you better grasp the nuances between these two emotional events. We'll provide you with easy-to-understand questions and explanations to help you identify whether you've been experiencing anxiety attacks or panic attacks.

Understanding these distinctions can be a crucial step towards managing your anxiety and seeking appropriate support.

Friendly reminder: this quiz isn’t intended to make assumptions or judgments about another person’s background, personality, or mental health. In other words, we can’t armchair diagnose you with anything. Our goal is to give you this tool to better understand your current situation and the opportunity to seek help if you want it.

Who is this quiz for?

This quiz is designed for people who want to assess if they're exhibiting signs of panic attacks or anxiety attacks.

How accurate is this quiz?

At Best Therapists, we believe that online mental health quizzes can be an excellent first step towards improving our mental health. Quizzes like this one can educate you and provide opportunities for self-reflection, but note that they are not a substitute for professional assessments and diagnoses.

Take our quiz below ↓

Your privacy is important to us, so all results are completely anonymous and no email is required.

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Frequently asked questions

What is a panic attack?

A panic attack is a sudden and intense surge of fear or extreme discomfort that typically peaks within a few minutes. It can involve physical symptoms like a racing heart, shortness of breath, and a feeling of impending doom.

What is an anxiety attack?

An anxiety attack, often incorrectly referred to as a panic attack, is a sudden episode of overwhelming fear, worry, or distress, characterized by physical and psychological symptoms such as increased heart rate, sweating, and a sense of impending danger. Unlike panic attacks, anxiety attacks are typically triggered by specific stressors or situations and can be more prolonged.

Can you self diagnose a panic or anxiety attack?

While there's no shortage of tools on the internet (including this one) that can help you understand what panic and anxiety attacks are, the best and safest way to diagnose one is with a certified professional. We recommend consulting with a licensed therapist to get started on an official diagnosis.