Anxiety is a natural response to stress. However, when it becomes overwhelming and persistent, it can develop into a disorder that impacts daily life. Panic disorder and generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) are two of the most common anxiety disorders. These conditions present in unique ways though. Understanding these differences is important for people seeking clarity on their symptoms and for professionals creating treatment plans.
Defining Panic Disorder
Description and Diagnostic Criteria of Panic Disorder:
Panic disorder is characterized by recurring and unexpected panic attacks. Panic attacks are feelings of fear that are often accompanied by sweating, chest pain, and other symptoms. These attacks can last a few minutes to an hour.
For a panic disorder to be diagnosed, a patient must also have concerns about future panic attacks. Patients will often change the way they act in an attempt to avoid future attacks. These behavioral changes can reduce a person’s quality of life as they try to avoid potential triggers.
Additional symptoms of panic disorder include:
- Sudden onset of intense fear or discomfort
- Rapid heartbeat and chest pain
- Shortness of breath or feeling like you are choking
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
- Sweating, chills, or hot flashes
- Fear of losing control or dying
Typical Onset and Triggers:
Panic disorder often begins in late adolescence or during early adulthood. Triggers can include life stressors or traumatic experiences. However, some panic attacks may appear seemingly out of nowhere. This can cause patients more stress as they live in fear of the next panic attack.
Defining Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD)
Description and Diagnostic Criteria of Generalized Anxiety Disorder:
Those with GAD experience frequent and excess worry about aspects of day-to-day life, such as work, health, and relationships. This worry occurs more days than not for at least six months. People with this condition may understand that they are worrying more than a situation warrants, but are unable to stop these upsetting thoughts.
Over 3% of the US population will experience this condition, yet less than half of them will receive treatment for it.
Common Symptoms of GAD include:
- Persistent and excessive worry
- Restlessness or feeling on edge
- Fatigue and muscle tension
- Difficulty concentrating
- Irritability
- Sleep disturbances
Typical Onset and Triggers:
GAD develops gradually, and impacts people across a wide range of ages – typically between childhood and middle-age. Stressful life events, genetics, and personality can all contribute to its onset.
Key Differences Between Panic Disorder and GAD
While these conditions both cause excessive worry and discomfort, they differ in several ways. Understanding these differences can be key to making a correct and accurate diagnosis. Differences between panic disorder and GAD include:
- Nature and Duration of Symptoms: Panic disorder involves sudden, intense episodes of fear. GAD features a more persistent, chronic state of worry.
- Patterns of Anxiety and Worry – Panic disorder occurs in episodes and is not predictable. The symptoms of GAD are ongoing and generalized worry.
- Physical Manifestations – Panic attacks cause physical symptoms, while GAD symptoms are typically less intense but last longer.
Shared Symptoms and Overlaps
Both disorders involve heightened anxiety and physical discomfort, such as rapid heartbeat, tension, and restlessness. Due to overlapping features, misdiagnosis can sometimes complicate treatment. An evaluation by a mental health professional is needed to understand which condition is causing these feelings. A health care provider will likely also perform lab work to ensure that there are no physical causes for these symptoms.
Causes and Risk Factors
Like many other mental health conditions, there is no known cause of panic disorder or generalized anxiety disorder. There are certain attributes that are believed to contribute to these conditions though, these include:
- Genetic Predispositions – Family history plays a role in both disorders, increasing susceptibility.
- Environmental and Lifestyle Factors – Chronic stress, trauma, and life transitions can contribute to these conditions.
- Co-occurring Mental Health Conditions – Depression and other anxiety disorders often coexist with panic disorder and GAD.
Diagnosis and Assessment
An assessment, including clinical interviews and questionnaires, helps mental health professionals differentiate these conditions. It is also recommended that patients log their feelings and potential triggers to help track their moods. A medical professional can use this information to help make a diagnosis as well.
Treatment Options
There are many proven treatment options for both panic disorder and GAD. Many people find that a combination of treatments and lifestyle changes lead to the best results. These include:
- Psychotherapy Approaches – Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is effective for both disorders. CBT helps individuals challenge anxious thoughts and develop healthy coping strategies.
- Medication Management – Medications including selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) may help manage symptoms. The decision to take medications should be a conversation between the patient and provider, weighing pros and cons.
- Lifestyle Changes and Self-Help Strategies – Regular exercise, mindfulness, and stress management can enhance well-being and help manage symptoms.
Living with Panic Disorder and GAD
Coping with these disorders involves ongoing effort and support. Going to therapy, having a strong support network, and practicing self-care can help manage symptoms.
Some may find hope and inspiration through virtual or in-person support groups. These can be a great way to learn about additional resources while connecting with others who understand what you are going through.
Help for Panic Disorder and GAD
While panic disorder and GAD share many similarities, they differ in their onset, duration, and symptom patterns. Recognizing these distinctions can empower individuals to seek appropriate help. If you or someone you know is struggling with anxiety, professional support is available at SunCloud Health. We offer flexible treatment options to help adolescents and adults who are struggling with anxiety, depression, and other co-occurring conditions.