Neftaly Mental Wellness: Recognizing the Symptoms of a Panic Attack

A panic attack can be overwhelming, frightening, and confusing — especially if you don’t know what’s happening. Learning to recognize the signs can help you respond with more confidence and seek help when needed.

At Neftaly, we believe that knowledge is power. Here’s what you need to know about identifying a panic attack.

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What Is a Panic Attack?

A panic attack is a sudden surge of intense fear or discomfort that peaks within minutes. It can happen unexpectedly or be triggered by stress, trauma, or certain situations.

Though panic attacks are not life-threatening, they can feel very real and distressing. Recognizing the symptoms is the first step toward managing them.

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Common Symptoms of a Panic Attack

Panic attacks often come with a combination of physical and emotional symptoms. Here are the most common ones:

Physical Symptoms

• Rapid heartbeat or palpitations
• Shortness of breath or feeling like you can’t breathe
• Chest pain or discomfort
• Sweating
• Shaking or trembling
• Dizziness, lightheadedness, or feeling faint
• Hot or cold flashes
• Nausea or stomach discomfort
• Tingling or numbness, especially in the hands and face

Emotional & Cognitive Symptoms

• Overwhelming fear or a sense of doom
• Fear of losing control or “going crazy”
• Fear of dying
• Feeling detached from reality or oneself (also known as derealization or depersonalization)

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How Long Does a Panic Attack Last?

Most panic attacks last between 5 and 20 minutes, though the aftereffects (like fatigue or worry) can linger longer. It’s important to note that while the experience is intense, it will pass.

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What Panic Attacks Are Not

• A heart attack (though they can feel similar)
• A sign of weakness or failure
• Dangerous to your life — though they feel very real, panic attacks are not physically harmful

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What Should You Do If You’re Having a Panic Attack?

1. Breathe deeply — Focus on slow, steady breathing: inhale for 4 seconds, hold for 4, exhale for 4.
2. Remind yourself — It will pass. Say something calming like, “This is a panic attack. I’m not in danger.”
3. Ground yourself — Use grounding techniques like the 5-4-3-2-1 method (name 5 things you see, 4 you can touch, etc.)
4. Seek support — Talk to someone you trust or reach out to a mental health professional.
5. Practice self-care — Rest, hydrate, and be kind to yourself after the episode.

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When to Seek Professional Help

If you:

• Have frequent panic attacks
• Constantly fear having another one
• Avoid certain places or situations because of fear
• Are struggling to cope with anxiety

You may be dealing with Panic Disorder or another anxiety-related condition. A mental health professional can help you explore treatment options like therapy, lifestyle changes, and, if needed, medication.

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In Summary:

Panic attacks are intense, but you are not alone, and they are treatable. By learning to recognize the symptoms, you can take steps to manage them and regain control of your mental well-being.

Neftaly is here to support you with tools, resources, and wellness education that empower you to live a healthier, more balanced life — inside and out.