If you’ve ever felt like your heart was racing, your chest was tight, and you couldn’t catch your breath—only to be told “it’s just anxiety”—you’re not alone. Panic attacks can feel terrifying and confusing, especially if you’re not sure what’s happening to your body or why.
So let’s talk about it. What does a panic attack actually feel like? What causes them? And when does it become something called panic disorder?
What Does a Panic Attack Feel Like?
Panic attacks are sudden waves of intense fear or discomfort that peak within minutes. You might feel:
- A racing or pounding heart
- Sweating or chills
- Chest pain or tightness
- Dizziness or feeling faint
- Trouble breathing or a choking sensation
- Nausea or stomach upset
- Tingling in your hands or feet
- A sense of detachment or feeling like things aren’t real
- A fear that you’re dying, losing control, or “going crazy”
What makes panic attacks especially scary is that they often come out of nowhere. One moment you’re fine, and the next, it feels like something is very wrong—even if you’re just sitting at your desk or standing in line at the grocery store.
What Is Panic Disorder?
If you’ve had more than one panic attack and now live with the fear of having another one, you may be experiencing panic disorder. It’s
not just about the panic attacks themselves—it’s about the worry and avoidance that can follow them.
People with panic disorder might:
- Avoid places where they’ve had a panic attack before
- Start skipping social events or public spaces
- Worry constantly about their health or safety
- Feel on edge most of the day
- Change their daily routines to try to “stay safe” from another attack
It’s more common than you might think—and it’s highly treatable.
Why It’s So Disruptive
Panic disorder doesn’t just affect your mind. It can start to shrink your world. People may stop driving, avoid restaurants or airports, or even avoid leaving the house altogether. Over time, fear of the fear becomes the real problem.
And because panic symptoms can mimic serious medical issues (like heart attacks), many people end up in the ER before they even know what’s happening.
That’s why understanding what a panic attack feels like—and knowing you’re not alone—is so important.
You Don’t Have to Live in Fear
Panic disorder can feel overwhelming, but the good news is: therapy works. With the right support, it’s absolutely possible to reduce the frequency and intensity of panic attacks—and even stop them from happening altogether.
Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is one of the most effective treatments for panic disorder. It helps you identify the thought patterns that fuel panic and teaches practical strategies to calm your body and mind. EMDR, mindfulness techniques, and exposure therapy can also be powerful tools in treatment.
Therapy doesn’t just manage symptoms—it helps you rebuild confidence and get back to living your life without fear.
Looking for Help in Kansas City?
If you’re in the Kansas City area and struggling with panic attacks or anxiety, you don’t have to go through it alone. Working with a licensed therapist can help you understand what your body is trying to tell you—and give you real tools to feel in control again.
We know how scary panic can feel, and how hard it can be to explain it to others. But you deserve support that gets it—and that helps you move forward, not just “deal with it.”
