Panic attacks are sudden episodes of intense fear that trigger severe physical reactions when there is no real danger or apparent cause. Panic attacks can be very frightening and distressing, and they can last from a few minutes to half an hour. However, the physical and emotional effects of the attack may last for a few hours. Panic attacks can be triggered by a variety of factors, including:

• Environmental factors: Chronic physical illnesses such as cancer, significant life changes such as losing a job, becoming a parent, or moving to a new place, and traumatic events can trigger panic attacks.

• Psychological factors: Chronic stress, low self-esteem, an existing mental health condition such as anxiety, depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), phobias, lack of assertiveness, and excess worry can trigger panic attacks.

• Pharmacological factors: Side effects from medication can trigger panic attacks.

• Physical factors: Overbreathing, long periods of stress, activities that lead to intense physical reactions (for example, exercise, excessive coffee drinking), and physical changes occurring after illness or a sudden change of environment can trigger panic attacks.

• Social factors: Relationship conflicts, financial stress, social outings, and substance abuse can trigger panic attacks.

Identifying certain situations that may trigger a panic attack can help manage panic disorder better. Even if you think your panic attacks have no identifiable cause, your healthcare provider can look for patterns and make associations that you may otherwise be unaware of.