What is a common reaction experienced during a panic attack?

During a panic attack, an individual typically experiences overwhelming feelings of fear, anxiety, or dread. This intense emotional response can manifest quickly and unexpectedly, leading to physical symptoms such as increased heart rate, sweating, shaking, and difficulty breathing. Individuals may also feel a sense of impending doom, which can further amplify their distress.

It's important to recognize that panic attacks are characterized by these heightened states of anxiety, rather than positive emotions like happiness or joy. While a sense of calmness may be what individuals strive towards in dealing with anxiety, it is not a reaction associated with a panic attack. The focus during these episodes is on fear and discomfort, which is why the correct identification of this experience emphasizes feelings of fear, anxiety, or dread.