Differences Between Panic Disorder and GAD

Differences Between Panic Disorder and GAD Panic Disorder Related Conditions Print Differences Between Panic Disorder and GAD Though similar, these disorders are distinct By Sheryl Ankrom linkedin Sheryl Ankrom is a clinical professional counselor and nationally certified clinical mental health counselor specializing in anxiety disorders. Learn about our editorial policy Sheryl Ankrom Medically reviewed by Medically reviewed by Steven Gans, MD on September 27, 2017 Steven Gans, MD is board-certified in psychiatry and is an active supervisor, teacher, and mentor at Massachusetts General Hospital. Learn about our Medical Review Board Steven Gans, MD Updated on September 11, 2019 Generalized Anxiety Disorder Overview Symptoms & Diagnosis Causes Treatment Living With In Children PeopleImages / Getty Images While panic disorder and generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) share some common symptoms, such as excessive worrying, they are two separate and distinct mental health conditions. Gaining knowledge about these two common mental health conditions may be the first step to helping yourself or a loved one. Characteristics of Panic Disorder Panic disorder is characterized by recurring, unexpected panic attacks that occur without the presence of actual danger. The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual for Mental Disorders, (DSM-5) defines a panic attack as a sudden onset of intense fear during which time at least four of the following physical and psychological symptoms are present:?? Heart palpitations, pounding heart, or accelerated heart rateExcessive sweatingTrembling or shakingSensations of shortness of breath or smotheringFeelings of chokingChest pain or discomfortNausea or abdominal distressFeeling dizzy, unsteady, light-headed, or faintChills or hot flashesNumbness and tingling sensations (paresthesias)Feelings of unreality (derealization) or being detached from oneself (depersonalization)Fear of losing control or going crazyFear of dying   DSM-5 Criteria for Diagnosing Panic Disorder The symptoms of a panic attack usually happen suddenly, peak within 10 minutes, and then subside. However, some attacks may last longer or may occur in succession, making it difficult to determine when one attack ends and another begins. Panic disorder often causes excessive  worry  about having another panic attack, creating a vicious cycle. Its not unusual for a person with panic disorder to become so consumed with worry and fear that they develop behavioral changes, such as  agoraphobia, to avoid environments or situations where they fear a panic attack may arise. Panic Disorder Recurring panic attacks Fear of going insane or losing control Feelings of unreality (derealization) or being detached from oneself (depersonalization) Excessive worry about future attack Chest pain, trembling, and shaking Accelerated heart rate, shortness of breath GAD Excessive worry over everyday life events Worrisome thoughts that interfere with daily functioning Sleep troubles, fatigue, muscle tension Irritability Feelings of mind going blank, or impaired concentration Digestive issues Characteristics of GAD The main feature of  GAD  is excessive and pervasive worry about many everyday life events. This worry is difficult to control, and the worrisome thoughts can become unmanageable. In order to be diagnosed with GAD, worry and anxiety must persist for more than six months and interfere with daily functioning. For a person with GAD, their worry and anxiety may take over, making it difficult for them to complete job tasks, maintain healthy relationships, and take care of themselves.   With GAD, a person may have physical symptoms, but they differ from those with panic disorder. Common examples of these physical symptoms include: Sleep problems (difficulty falling or staying asleep)FatigueMuscle tensionIrritabilityRestlessnessDigestive issues like diarrhea or stomach discomfortChronic headaches The focus of worry in GAD generally surrounds usual life circumstancesâ€"finances, job issues, children, healthâ€"unlike in panic disorder, when worry occurs spontaneously and/or focuses on when the next panic attack will occur. Generalized Anxiety Disorder Diagnosed Using the DSM-5 Coexistence of Conditions It is possible to have both panic disorder and GAD. Its also not uncommon for panic disorder and GAD to co-occur with mood disorders like major depressive disorder, other anxiety disorders like  social  phobia, or substance abuse disorder. Further complicating the picture is that medical conditions such as an overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism), heart disease, lung disease, or neurological diseases like stroke may mimic the symptoms of a panic disorder or GAD. This is why its important to seek out care from a healthcare professional to ensure proper evaluation and diagnosis, and to begin a course of treatment. A Word From Verywell The symptoms of panic disorder and GAD can be disabling, affecting both quality of life and a persons everyday functioning. But the good news is that with professional treatment, the vast majority of people with panic disorder or GAD can obtain significant relief from their symptoms. The earlier the diagnosis made and treatment begins, the better. If you have symptoms of panic disorder, GAD, or both, talk to your doctor or another healthcare provider. Sometimes getting started and reaching out is the hardest step, but youll be happy that you did.   The 9 Best Online Therapy Programs