What happens?

‘A panic attack is an intense emotional and physical response to a sense of dread or fear,’ says psychologist Dr Alison Mcclymont. ‘It may have an obvious trigger (such as stress), but it may also come on seemingly unprovoked and can make you feel like your health, or in extreme situations, your life, is under threat.’

SPOT THE SIGNS

The overwhelming symptom of a panic attack is an impending sense of doom or anxiety. ‘This may be accompanied by sweaty palms, racing heart, difficulty breathing (hyperventilating), or muscle pain,’ says Dr Mcclymont. Trembling, dizziness and feeling detached from reality are also common symptoms. Physical symptoms can be so extreme that some sufferers may go to A&E, believing they are having a heart attack. However, while panic attacks are frightening, they’re not dangerous and won’t cause you any physical harm.