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A panic attack is a sudden feeling of intense fear that can happen without warning. - Panic disorder involves repeated panic attacks and ongoing fear of having more attacks. - Symptoms may include a racing heart, trouble breathing, sweating and feeling dizzy. - Triggers for panic attacks may include stress, health issues or changes in brain chemicals. - Treatment may include relaxation techniques, lifestyle changes, therapy and medicines. ## On this page - [What is a panic attack?](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/panic-attacks-and-panic-disorder#what-is) - [What is panic disorder?](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/panic-attacks-and-panic-disorder#panic-disorder) - [What symptoms are related to panic attacks and panic disorder?](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/panic-attacks-and-panic-disorder#symptoms) - [What causes a panic attack and panic disorder?](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/panic-attacks-and-panic-disorder#caused) - [How is panic disorder diagnosed?](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/panic-attacks-and-panic-disorder#diagnosed) - [When should I see my doctor?](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/panic-attacks-and-panic-disorder#doctor) - [How are panic attacks and panic disorder treated?](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/panic-attacks-and-panic-disorder#treated) - [What are the complications of panic attacks and panic disorder?](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/panic-attacks-and-panic-disorder#complications) - [Can panic attacks and panic disorder be prevented?](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/panic-attacks-and-panic-disorder#prevented) - [Resources and support](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/panic-attacks-and-panic-disorder#resources) - [Related information on Australian websites](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/panic-attacks-and-panic-disorder#searchGeneralResults) ## What is a panic attack? **If you have pain in your chest and think you may be having a heart attack, call triple zero (000) immediately and ask for an ambulance.** A panic attack is a sudden feeling of intense fear that can happen without warning. It usually lasts for a few minutes and might include symptoms such as [chest pain](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/chest-pain), [trouble breathing](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/shortness-of-breath), sweating or a [racing heart](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/heart-palpitations). It can feel very scary, even if there's no real danger. Sometimes, the symptoms may feel like you're having a [heart attack](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/heart-attack) or another [medical emergency](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/calling-triple-zero). People sometimes use other words to describe panic: - [anxiety](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/anxiety) - anxiety attack - panic disorder These are actually different conditions. [A doctor or mental health professional can help](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/mental-health-where-to-get-help) make the right diagnosis. ### Is an anxiety attack the same as a panic attack? [Anxiety](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/anxiety) is feeling [worried](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/excessive-worry) or nervous about something that might happen. It's a normal response to [stress](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/stress) and can help you prepare for challenges. **An anxiety attack** happens because of stress and usually builds up slowly. If you feel anxious so often that it affects your daily life it could mean you have an [anxiety-related disorder](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/anxiety-related-disorders). **A panic attack** comes on suddenly, often without warning and feels much more intense than anxiety. Panic attacks can lead to strong physical symptoms. ## What is panic disorder? Having a panic attack doesn't necessarily mean you have panic disorder. Panic disorder is when you have repeated panic attacks that affect your life. These attacks may happen at any time, even when there is no clear reason or danger. You can also have expected panic attacks, that happen in response to a situation (trigger) that you fear. People with panic disorder often feel in constant fear of having another attack. ## What symptoms are related to panic attacks and panic disorder? Panic attacks and panic disorder can lead to physical and emotional symptoms that affect your daily life and [well-being](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/signs-of-mental-health-issues). ### Symptoms related to panic attacks A panic attack is a sudden and intense feeling of fear that can happen at any time. Symptoms develop quickly and usually peak within 10 minutes. Physical symptoms may include: - [shortness of breath](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/shortness-of-breath) and hyperventilation (fast, shallow breathing) - racing heartbeat or [palpitations](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/heart-palpitations) - [chest pain](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/chest-pain) or discomfort - trembling or shaking - sweating - feeling [dizzy](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/dizziness) or lightheaded - abdominal [(tummy) pain](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/abdominal-pain) and [nausea](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/nausea) Emotional symptoms may include: - a [fear](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/facing-and-overcoming-fears) of losing control, 'going crazy', having a heart attack or dying - depersonalisation (feeling detached from yourself) - derealisation (feelings of unreality) ### Symptoms related to panic disorder Panic disorder means having panic attacks more than once. You may: - worry a lot about when the next panic attack will happen - stay away from places or situations where you think an attack could happen - change your habits, such as avoiding crowded places or travelling - feel tense or anxious even when you're not having an attack [**CHECK YOUR SYMPTOMS** — Use the **Symptom Checker** and find out if you need to seek medical help.](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/symptom-checker) ## What causes a panic attack and panic disorder? Panic attacks and panic disorder can happen because of changes in the body, life events or traits passed down (inherited) from family. ### What causes a panic attack? A panic attack may happen in response to a clear trigger, or it may occur with no identifiable trigger at all. A panic attack can be triggered by: - changes in brain chemicals that control stress and mood - an overreaction of the body's stress system caused by emotions such as fear or shame - health problems, such as [thyroid issues](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/thyroid-problems) or [heart conditions](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/heart-and-cardiovascular-conditions) - using stimulants, such as [caffeine](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/caffeine) or [drugs](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/Illicit-drug-use) — for example, [amphetamines](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/speed) or [cocaine](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/cocaine) ### What causes panic disorder? Several risk factors may contribute to panic disorder, such as: - a [family history](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/family-medical-history) of panic disorder, anxiety or [depression](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/depression) - difficult experiences in childhood — such as [child abuse](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/child-abuse) - stressful [life events](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/dealing-with-life-events) — such as a big change or [loss](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/grief-loss) - a natural tendency to worry or be sensitive to stress ## How is panic disorder diagnosed? Your doctor will ask you about your symptoms and how they affect your daily life. The more detailed your answers about what you're experiencing, the better. Your doctor will first rule out serious medical conditions. You may then be diagnosed with panic disorder if your symptoms affect your ability to function and are causing distress. Your doctor may do other tests to rule out other health conditions, or refer you to a mental health professional. [**ASK YOUR DOCTOR** — Preparing for an appointment? Use the **Question Builder** for general tips on what to ask your GP or specialist.](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/question-builder) ## When should I see my doctor? **Get help immediately if you feel like you might hurt yourself or someone else. Call triple zero (000) if your symptoms feel like a heart attack or another medical emergency.** If you have had one or more panic attacks, [talking to your doctor](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/talking-to-your-doctor-gp-about-mental-health) is a good place to start. Contact your doctor if you have received treatment for a panic attack and: - you have another panic attack - it is causing problems or [side effects](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/medicine-and-side-effects) - you notice new symptoms that concern you [**FIND A HEALTH SERVICE** — The **Service Finder** can help you find doctors, pharmacies, hospitals and other health services.](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/australian-health-services) ## How are panic attacks and panic disorder treated? Treatment can help reduce how often attacks happen and make them less intense. Your doctor can guide you through the best treatment options for you. ### Self-care at home There are some things that can help when you are having a panic attack. [**Relaxation techniques**](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/relaxation-techniques-for-stress-relief): - Practise [mindfulness](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/mindfulness) to stay focused and calm. - Try activities, such as [yoga](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/health-benefits-of-yoga-and-pilates) or [meditation](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/meditation) to improve your mood and help you feel more relaxed. - Use breathing exercises, such as deep breathing, during an attack to calm your symptoms. **Lifestyle changes:** - Try [regular physical activity](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/exercise-and-mental-health), such as [walking](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/walking-for-exercise), [running](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/running-tips) or dancing. - [Spend time with family and friends](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/building-and-maintaining-healthy-relationships) to avoid [feeling alone](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/loneliness-isolation-mental-health). - Reduce or [avoid smoking](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/quit-smoking-vaping), caffeine and [alcohol](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/blog/how-can-sober-curiosity-help-you-to-reduce-or-stop-drinking). - Try to [get enough sleep](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/sleep). ### Medicines for panic attacks and panic disorder Certain medicines can help treat panic disorder. [**Antidepressants**](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/antidepressants) are commonly used because they are effective and don't usually cause addiction. They take time to start working and may cause side effects. [**Benzodiazepines**](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/medicines-for-anxiety) act quickly to relieve panic symptoms. However, they can lead to dependence, so they are usually prescribed for short-term use only. If you have questions about medicines, ask your doctor or [pharmacist](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/getting-the-most-out-of-your-pharmacist) for advice. ### Other treatment options [Cognitive behavioural therapy](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/cognitive-behaviour-therapy-cbt) is a type of talk therapy that helps you learn practical tools to manage panic attacks and panic disorder. It may also help to learn about the condition. [**ASK YOUR DOCTOR** — Preparing for an appointment? Use the **Question Builder** for general tips on what to ask your GP or specialist.](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/question-builder) ## What are the complications of panic attacks and panic disorder? Panic attacks and panic disorder can lead to: - being afraid and avoiding social activities ([social anxiety disorder](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/social-anxiety-disorder)) - being scared to leave your house ([agoraphobia](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/agoraphobia)) - trouble at work or school - [depression](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/depression) or thinking about [self-harm](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/self-harm) or [suicide](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/are-you-experiencing-suicidal-thoughts) - using [drugs](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/Illicit-drug-use) or [alcohol](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/how-alcohol-affects-your-health) to cope ## Can panic attacks and panic disorder be prevented? There are effective tools and strategies that can help reduce the likelihood of panic attacks, including: - managing [stress](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/stress), such as practising relaxation techniques - leading a [healthy lifestyle](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/healthy-lifestyle), such as engaging in regular exercise - [seeking professional help](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/mental-health-where-to-get-help), such as through [psychotherapy](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/psychotherapy) ## Resources and support Dealing with panic attacks or panic disorder is easier if you seek help. You may be eligible for a [mental health treatment plan](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/mental-health-treatment-plan), which reduces the cost of psychological therapy. You can also contact one of the services below to speak with someone or chat online: - [Kids Helpline](https://kidshelpline.com.au/teens) (telephone and online counselling for people aged 5-25 years) — call 1800 55 1800. - [Mensline Australia](https://mensline.org.au/) (online counselling and forum for men) — call 1300 78 99 78. - [Lifeline](https://www.lifeline.org.au/) (for anyone having a personal crisis) — call 13 11 14. - [Suicide Call Back Service](https://www.suicidecallbackservice.org.au/) (for anyone thinking about suicide) — call 1300 659 467. - [MindSpot Clinic](https://www.mindspot.org.au/) (for anyone suffering from anxiety or depression) — call 1800 61 44 34. - [Beyond Blue](https://www.beyondblue.org.au/) (for anyone feeling depressed or anxious) — call 1300 22 4636 or chat online. ### Online programs and tools There are also online programs and tools that can help: - [ReachOut Worry Time App](https://au.reachout.com/tools-and-apps) can help to control everyday worries and anxieties. - Black Dog Institutes' [myCompass](https://www.blackdoginstitute.org.au/resources-support/digital-tools-apps/mycompass/) provides a personalised online self-help program. - This Way Up's [online course for panic attacks](https://thiswayup.org.au/programs/panic-program/). ### Other languages - [Embrace Multicultural Mental Health](https://www.embracementalhealth.org.au/) offers mental health resources and personal stories translated in more than 30 community languages. ### Looking for information for Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander people? - Mindspot's [Indigenous Wellbeing Course](https://www.mindspot.org.au/treatment/our-courses/indigenous-wellbeing-course/) is for Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander people aged 18 years and over. - [Proppa Deadly](https://triplea.org.au/proppa-deadly/) — people tell their stories about living with depression and anxiety. - [WellMob](https://wellmob.org.au/) Healing Our Way — provides social, emotional, and cultural wellbeing online resources. #### Sources: Murtagh's General Practice *[(Chapter 70: Anxiety disorders (Murtagh J, Rosenblatt J, et al.))](https://murtagh.mhmedical.com/content.aspx?sectionid=262302426&bookid=3133#262302471 "Chapter 70: Anxiety disorders (Murtagh J, Rosenblatt J, et al.)")*, Psychopathology - An International and Interdisciplinary Perspective *[(Panic Attacks and Panic Disorder (Bonevski D, Naumovska A))](https://www.intechopen.com/chapters/67723 "Panic Attacks and Panic Disorder (Bonevski D, Naumovska A)")*, Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration *[(Panic Disorder and Agoraphobia Criteria Changes from DSM-IV to DSM-5)](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK519704/table/ch3.t10/ "Panic Disorder and Agoraphobia Criteria Changes from DSM-IV to DSM-5")*, Translational psychiatry *[(Neurochemical and genetic factors in panic disorder: a systematic review (Moraes CAN et al.))](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39025836/ "Neurochemical and genetic factors in panic disorder: a systematic review (Moraes CAN et al.)")*, Journal of Psychosocial Nursing and Mental Health Services *[(Internet-Based Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy for Individuals Experiencing Panic Attacks: A Scoping Literature Review (Miqdadi AI et al.))](https://journals.healio.com/doi/10.3928/02793695-20230919-02 "Internet-Based Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy for Individuals Experiencing Panic Attacks: A Scoping Literature Review (Miqdadi AI et al.)")*, Front Psychiatry *[(Biobehavioral approach to distinguishing panic symptoms from medical illness. (Tunnell NC))](https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11109415/pdf/fpsyt-15-1296569.pdf "Biobehavioral approach to distinguishing panic symptoms from medical illness. (Tunnell NC)")* Learn more here about the [development and quality assurance of healthdirect content](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/about-our-content). Last reviewed: December 2024 [Back To Top](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/panic-attacks-and-panic-disorder#backToTop) ## Search our site for - [Panic](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/search-results/Panic "Search results for: Panic") - [Anxiety Disorders](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/search-results/Anxiety%20Disorders "Search results for: Anxiety Disorders") - [Agoraphobia](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/search-results/Agoraphobia "Search results for: Agoraphobia") ## Need more information? These trusted information partners have more on this topic. General search results Results for medical professionals Top results [Panic disorder - myDr.com.au People with panic disorder have repeated panic attacks that often occur out of the blue, and agoraphobia is a common complication. *Read more on myDoctor website* ](https://www.mydr.com.au/mental-health/panic-disorder/) [Online Treatment Program for Panic Attacks \| THIS WAY UP Learn practical strategies for managing anxiety and panic attacks with our clinically-proven online treatment program for panic. *Read more on This Way Up website* ](https://thiswayup.org.au/what-we-treat/panic) [Panic Disorder: Causes, Symptoms, and Support \| Wayahead Find out what panic disorder is, its symptoms, and the treatment options available to help you regain control. *Read more on Wayahead website* ](https://wayahead.org.au/get-the-facts/panic-disorder/) [Panic attacks \| Lifeline A panic attack is a sudden rush of intense anxiety with a surge of frightening physical sensations and thoughts. Learn more about panic attacks. *Read more on Lifeline website* ](https://www.lifeline.org.au/get-help/support-toolkit/topics/panic-attacks) [What are the symptoms of a panic attack? \| MensLine Australia Symptoms of a panic attack can be very intense & frightening \| Tips to stop a panic attack from MensLine Australia. *Read more on MensLine Australia website* ](https://mensline.org.au/mens-mental-health/what-are-the-symptoms-of-a-panic-attack/) [Panic attack \| Better Health Channel Without treatment, frequent and prolonged panic attacks can be severely disabling. *Read more on Better Health Channel website* ](https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/conditionsandtreatments/panic-attack) Show more Top results [Panic Disorder Self-Help Resources - Information Sheets & Workbooks Self-help resources for panic, written by clinical psychologists at the Centre for Clinical Interventions in Perth, Western Australia *Read more on Centre for Clinical Interventions website* ](https://www.cci.health.wa.gov.au/Resources/Looking-After-Yourself/Panic) Show more ## Disclaimer Healthdirect Australia is not responsible for the content and advertising on the external website you are now entering. 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## Key facts - A panic attack is a sudden feeling of intense fear that can happen without warning. - Panic disorder involves repeated panic attacks and ongoing fear of having more attacks. - Symptoms may include a racing heart, trouble breathing, sweating and feeling dizzy. - Triggers for panic attacks may include stress, health issues or changes in brain chemicals. - Treatment may include relaxation techniques, lifestyle changes, therapy and medicines. ## On this page - [What is a panic attack?](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/panic-attacks-and-panic-disorder#what-is) - [What is panic disorder?](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/panic-attacks-and-panic-disorder#panic-disorder) - [What symptoms are related to panic attacks and panic disorder?](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/panic-attacks-and-panic-disorder#symptoms) - [What causes a panic attack and panic disorder?](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/panic-attacks-and-panic-disorder#caused) - [How is panic disorder diagnosed?](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/panic-attacks-and-panic-disorder#diagnosed) - [When should I see my doctor?](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/panic-attacks-and-panic-disorder#doctor) - [How are panic attacks and panic disorder treated?](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/panic-attacks-and-panic-disorder#treated) - [What are the complications of panic attacks and panic disorder?](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/panic-attacks-and-panic-disorder#complications) - [Can panic attacks and panic disorder be prevented?](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/panic-attacks-and-panic-disorder#prevented) - [Resources and support](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/panic-attacks-and-panic-disorder#resources) - [Related information on Australian websites](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/panic-attacks-and-panic-disorder#searchGeneralResults) ## What is a panic attack? A panic attack is a sudden feeling of intense fear that can happen without warning. It usually lasts for a few minutes and might include symptoms such as [chest pain](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/chest-pain), [trouble breathing](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/shortness-of-breath), sweating or a [racing heart](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/heart-palpitations). It can feel very scary, even if there's no real danger. Sometimes, the symptoms may feel like you're having a [heart attack](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/heart-attack) or another [medical emergency](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/calling-triple-zero). People sometimes use other words to describe panic: - [anxiety](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/anxiety) - anxiety attack - panic disorder These are actually different conditions. [A doctor or mental health professional can help](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/mental-health-where-to-get-help) make the right diagnosis. ### Is an anxiety attack the same as a panic attack? [Anxiety](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/anxiety) is feeling [worried](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/excessive-worry) or nervous about something that might happen. It's a normal response to [stress](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/stress) and can help you prepare for challenges. **An anxiety attack** happens because of stress and usually builds up slowly. If you feel anxious so often that it affects your daily life it could mean you have an [anxiety-related disorder](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/anxiety-related-disorders). **A panic attack** comes on suddenly, often without warning and feels much more intense than anxiety. Panic attacks can lead to strong physical symptoms. ## What is panic disorder? Having a panic attack doesn't necessarily mean you have panic disorder. Panic disorder is when you have repeated panic attacks that affect your life. These attacks may happen at any time, even when there is no clear reason or danger. You can also have expected panic attacks, that happen in response to a situation (trigger) that you fear. People with panic disorder often feel in constant fear of having another attack. ## What symptoms are related to panic attacks and panic disorder? Panic attacks and panic disorder can lead to physical and emotional symptoms that affect your daily life and [well-being](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/signs-of-mental-health-issues). ### Symptoms related to panic attacks A panic attack is a sudden and intense feeling of fear that can happen at any time. Symptoms develop quickly and usually peak within 10 minutes. Physical symptoms may include: - [shortness of breath](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/shortness-of-breath) and hyperventilation (fast, shallow breathing) - racing heartbeat or [palpitations](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/heart-palpitations) - [chest pain](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/chest-pain) or discomfort - trembling or shaking - sweating - feeling [dizzy](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/dizziness) or lightheaded - abdominal [(tummy) pain](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/abdominal-pain) and [nausea](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/nausea) Emotional symptoms may include: - a [fear](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/facing-and-overcoming-fears) of losing control, 'going crazy', having a heart attack or dying - depersonalisation (feeling detached from yourself) - derealisation (feelings of unreality) ### Symptoms related to panic disorder Panic disorder means having panic attacks more than once. You may: - worry a lot about when the next panic attack will happen - stay away from places or situations where you think an attack could happen - change your habits, such as avoiding crowded places or travelling - feel tense or anxious even when you're not having an attack [**CHECK YOUR SYMPTOMS** — Use the **Symptom Checker** and find out if you need to seek medical help.](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/symptom-checker) ## What causes a panic attack and panic disorder? Panic attacks and panic disorder can happen because of changes in the body, life events or traits passed down (inherited) from family. ### What causes a panic attack? A panic attack may happen in response to a clear trigger, or it may occur with no identifiable trigger at all. A panic attack can be triggered by: - changes in brain chemicals that control stress and mood - an overreaction of the body's stress system caused by emotions such as fear or shame - health problems, such as [thyroid issues](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/thyroid-problems) or [heart conditions](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/heart-and-cardiovascular-conditions) - using stimulants, such as [caffeine](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/caffeine) or [drugs](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/Illicit-drug-use) — for example, [amphetamines](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/speed) or [cocaine](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/cocaine) ### What causes panic disorder? Several risk factors may contribute to panic disorder, such as: - a [family history](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/family-medical-history) of panic disorder, anxiety or [depression](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/depression) - difficult experiences in childhood — such as [child abuse](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/child-abuse) - stressful [life events](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/dealing-with-life-events) — such as a big change or [loss](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/grief-loss) - a natural tendency to worry or be sensitive to stress ## How is panic disorder diagnosed? Your doctor will ask you about your symptoms and how they affect your daily life. The more detailed your answers about what you're experiencing, the better. Your doctor will first rule out serious medical conditions. You may then be diagnosed with panic disorder if your symptoms affect your ability to function and are causing distress. Your doctor may do other tests to rule out other health conditions, or refer you to a mental health professional. [**ASK YOUR DOCTOR** — Preparing for an appointment? Use the **Question Builder** for general tips on what to ask your GP or specialist.](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/question-builder) ## When should I see my doctor? If you have had one or more panic attacks, [talking to your doctor](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/talking-to-your-doctor-gp-about-mental-health) is a good place to start. Contact your doctor if you have received treatment for a panic attack and: - you have another panic attack - it is causing problems or [side effects](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/medicine-and-side-effects) - you notice new symptoms that concern you [**FIND A HEALTH SERVICE** — The **Service Finder** can help you find doctors, pharmacies, hospitals and other health services.](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/australian-health-services) ## How are panic attacks and panic disorder treated? Treatment can help reduce how often attacks happen and make them less intense. Your doctor can guide you through the best treatment options for you. ### Self-care at home There are some things that can help when you are having a panic attack. [**Relaxation techniques**](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/relaxation-techniques-for-stress-relief): - Practise [mindfulness](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/mindfulness) to stay focused and calm. - Try activities, such as [yoga](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/health-benefits-of-yoga-and-pilates) or [meditation](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/meditation) to improve your mood and help you feel more relaxed. - Use breathing exercises, such as deep breathing, during an attack to calm your symptoms. **Lifestyle changes:** - Try [regular physical activity](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/exercise-and-mental-health), such as [walking](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/walking-for-exercise), [running](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/running-tips) or dancing. - [Spend time with family and friends](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/building-and-maintaining-healthy-relationships) to avoid [feeling alone](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/loneliness-isolation-mental-health). - Reduce or [avoid smoking](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/quit-smoking-vaping), caffeine and [alcohol](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/blog/how-can-sober-curiosity-help-you-to-reduce-or-stop-drinking). - Try to [get enough sleep](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/sleep). ### Medicines for panic attacks and panic disorder Certain medicines can help treat panic disorder. [**Antidepressants**](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/antidepressants) are commonly used because they are effective and don't usually cause addiction. They take time to start working and may cause side effects. [**Benzodiazepines**](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/medicines-for-anxiety) act quickly to relieve panic symptoms. However, they can lead to dependence, so they are usually prescribed for short-term use only. If you have questions about medicines, ask your doctor or [pharmacist](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/getting-the-most-out-of-your-pharmacist) for advice. ### Other treatment options [Cognitive behavioural therapy](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/cognitive-behaviour-therapy-cbt) is a type of talk therapy that helps you learn practical tools to manage panic attacks and panic disorder. It may also help to learn about the condition. [**ASK YOUR DOCTOR** — Preparing for an appointment? Use the **Question Builder** for general tips on what to ask your GP or specialist.](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/question-builder) ## What are the complications of panic attacks and panic disorder? Panic attacks and panic disorder can lead to: - being afraid and avoiding social activities ([social anxiety disorder](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/social-anxiety-disorder)) - being scared to leave your house ([agoraphobia](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/agoraphobia)) - trouble at work or school - [depression](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/depression) or thinking about [self-harm](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/self-harm) or [suicide](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/are-you-experiencing-suicidal-thoughts) - using [drugs](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/Illicit-drug-use) or [alcohol](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/how-alcohol-affects-your-health) to cope ## Can panic attacks and panic disorder be prevented? There are effective tools and strategies that can help reduce the likelihood of panic attacks, including: - managing [stress](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/stress), such as practising relaxation techniques - leading a [healthy lifestyle](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/healthy-lifestyle), such as engaging in regular exercise - [seeking professional help](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/mental-health-where-to-get-help), such as through [psychotherapy](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/psychotherapy) ## Resources and support Dealing with panic attacks or panic disorder is easier if you seek help. You may be eligible for a [mental health treatment plan](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/mental-health-treatment-plan), which reduces the cost of psychological therapy. You can also contact one of the services below to speak with someone or chat online: - [Kids Helpline](https://kidshelpline.com.au/teens) (telephone and online counselling for people aged 5-25 years) — call 1800 55 1800. - [Mensline Australia](https://mensline.org.au/) (online counselling and forum for men) — call 1300 78 99 78. - [Lifeline](https://www.lifeline.org.au/) (for anyone having a personal crisis) — call 13 11 14. - [Suicide Call Back Service](https://www.suicidecallbackservice.org.au/) (for anyone thinking about suicide) — call 1300 659 467. - [MindSpot Clinic](https://www.mindspot.org.au/) (for anyone suffering from anxiety or depression) — call 1800 61 44 34. - [Beyond Blue](https://www.beyondblue.org.au/) (for anyone feeling depressed or anxious) — call 1300 22 4636 or chat online. ### Online programs and tools There are also online programs and tools that can help: - [ReachOut Worry Time App](https://au.reachout.com/tools-and-apps) can help to control everyday worries and anxieties. - Black Dog Institutes' [myCompass](https://www.blackdoginstitute.org.au/resources-support/digital-tools-apps/mycompass/) provides a personalised online self-help program. - This Way Up's [online course for panic attacks](https://thiswayup.org.au/programs/panic-program/). ### Other languages - [Embrace Multicultural Mental Health](https://www.embracementalhealth.org.au/) offers mental health resources and personal stories translated in more than 30 community languages. ### Looking for information for Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander people? - Mindspot's [Indigenous Wellbeing Course](https://www.mindspot.org.au/treatment/our-courses/indigenous-wellbeing-course/) is for Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander people aged 18 years and over. - [Proppa Deadly](https://triplea.org.au/proppa-deadly/) — people tell their stories about living with depression and anxiety. - [WellMob](https://wellmob.org.au/) Healing Our Way — provides social, emotional, and cultural wellbeing online resources.