Question

How can I tell if I'm having panic attacks from social anxiety?

Answer 1

Distinguishing between panic attacks and anxiety related to social situations (social anxiety) can sometimes be challenging, as they can share some similar symptoms. However, there are specific characteristics and patterns that can help you differentiate between the two:

Panic Attacks:

1. Sudden Onset: Panic attacks typically come on suddenly and reach their peak within minutes. They can be intense and overwhelming.
2. Physical Symptoms: Panic attacks often involve physical symptoms, such as a racing heart, sweating, trembling, shortness of breath, chest pain, dizziness, and a feeling of choking or suffocation.
3. Fear of Losing Control or Dying: People experiencing panic attacks may have a strong fear of losing control, going crazy, or even dying.
4. No Obvious Trigger: Panic attacks can occur without an apparent external trigger, making them feel unpredictable and frightening.
5. Can Occur Anywhere: Panic attacks can happen in various situations, including social settings, but they are not exclusive to social situations.

Social Anxiety:

1. Triggered by Social Situations: Social anxiety is primarily triggered by social interactions or the fear of being judged, embarrassed, or humiliated in social settings.
2. Persistent Fear and Avoidance: People with social anxiety often experience persistent fear or anxiety about social situations and may actively avoid social interactions or events.
3. Fear of Negative Evaluation: The core fear in social anxiety is often related to being negatively evaluated or judged by others, leading to self-consciousness and discomfort.
4. Limited to Social Settings: Social anxiety is specific to social situations and does not involve panic attacks in non-social settings.

It's essential to recognize that panic attacks and social anxiety can coexist, and someone with social anxiety might experience panic attacks in social situations. If you are uncertain about your symptoms or experiencing significant distress, it is crucial to seek professional help from a mental health provider.

A mental health professional, such as a psychologist or psychiatrist, can conduct a thorough evaluation, make a proper diagnosis, and develop an appropriate treatment plan tailored to your specific needs. Effective treatments for social anxiety may include cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), exposure therapy, and in some cases, medication.