Feeling Panicked? Take This Panic Disorder Test

Panic disorder is a mental health condition characterized by recurring, unexpected panic attacks—sudden episodes of intense fear accompanied by physical symptoms like rapid heartbeat, shortness of breath, and dizziness. These attacks can occur without warning and may lead to avoidance of places or situations where past attacks occurred.

Symptoms include:

• Sudden, overwhelming panic attacks
• Fear of losing control or impending doom
• Physical symptoms: rapid heartbeat, sweating, shortness of breath
• Worry about future attacks

Treatment for panic disorder typically involves psychotherapy, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), to manage panic triggers and responses. Exposure therapy, where peopel are exposed to triggers in safe environments, can also be helpful for people to learn that physical sensations are not harmful and to remove the conditioned response that these sensations will cause a panic attack. Medications like SSRIs or anti-anxiety medications may also help reduce symptoms. Combining therapy with relaxation techniques and lifestyle changes can provide a comprehensive approach to recovery.

This test is for individuals who are concerned about experiencing sudden and intense episodes of panic. It can help identify symptoms of panic disorder and encourage further evaluation from a licensed mental health professional.

This test is not a diagnostic tool and should not replace professional mental health advice. If you suspect you may have panic disorder or any other mental health condition, it is important to consult with a licensed mental health professional for a thorough assessment and to discuss appropriate treatment options.

Your test results provide insight into the likelihood of experiencing symptoms related to panic disorder. While the test offers helpful self-reflection, it does not replace a formal diagnosis. If you suspect you have panic disorder, seeking support from a mental health professional is essential for comprehensive evaluation and treatment planning. Engaging with loved ones or seeking additional resources may also be beneficial in addressing your concerns.

There is no “normal” score for this panic disorder test, as the experiences and challenges associated with the condition can differ significantly among people. Your score reflects a spectrum of symptom likelihood, from minimal to more pronounced tendencies. Viewing your results in the context of your overall mental health and daily functioning is crucial, rather than comparing them to a set standard. If you have concerns about your symptoms or personality traits, consulting with a mental health professional about possible mental health conditions is advised for a comprehensive evaluation and personalized support.

A low score suggests that you are unlikely to experience symptoms associated witha  panic disorder or related mental health conditions. If you have any ongoing concerns about your mental health, regardless of your score, seeking the advice of a mental health professional could still be valuable for further evaluation and support.

A high score suggests you may be experiencing recurring and disruptive panic symptoms that warrant professional evaluation. Symptoms like sudden panic, physical discomfort, and avoidance behaviors can interfere with daily life. Early intervention with treatment, such as therapy, can help reduce symptoms and improve your quality of life.

This test can help you understand how recurring panic attacks and intense fear might impact your life. It helps identify common panic attack symptoms and can guide you in deciding whether to seek professional support and facilitate a meaningful discussion with a mental health provider, aiding in diagnosis and treatment planning. Tracking your responses can help monitor symptom changes and contribute to a broader understanding of mental health issues.

Research consistently shows that panic disorder frequently co-occurs with other mental health conditions, complicating diagnosis and treatment. Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) often overlaps with panic disorder, as both share physiological and psychological mechanisms, such as heightened stress sensitivity, data shows. Co-occurrence with depression and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is also prevalent.

Physical and behavioral health conditions are also common alongside panic disorder. For instance, individuals may turn to substance use as a maladaptive coping mechanism for anxiety, research shows, creating a cyclical relationship that exacerbates both disorders. Additionally, research highlights a connection between panic disorder and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), chronic pain, and more.