An anxiety attack is a sudden episode of intense fear or discomfort that can occur in response to certain stressors and may build gradually. It is not a specific disorder on its own, but rather a feature of a number of common psychiatric disorders, including generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder, and post-traumatic stress disorder. Anxiety attacks can cause physical and emotional symptoms, including apprehension, worry, distress, fear of dying or losing control, a sense of detachment from the world or oneself, and changes in heart rate, among others.

It is important to note that anxiety attacks are different from panic attacks, which are sudden periods of intense fear and discomfort that may include palpitations, sweating, chest pain or chest discomfort, shortness of breath, trembling, dizziness, numbness, confusion, or a feeling of impending doom or of losing control. Panic attacks can occur unexpectedly and abruptly, while anxiety attacks tend to occur in response to certain stressors and may build gradually.

If you experience an anxiety or panic attack, it is important to remember that the symptoms are not dangerous, but can be very frightening. You can try to manage the attack by doing breathing exercises, focusing on your surroundings, and trying to remain in the situation until the anxiety has subsided. If you are having difficulty managing your anxiety or panic attacks, it is recommended that you seek help from a mental health professional.