Panic Disorder vs. Generalized Anxiety Disorder: Understanding the Difference

Both panic disorder and generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) fall under the anxiety umbrella, but they feel very different to live with. At Next Step Psychiatry in Lilburn, GA, we frequently see patients who aren't sure which one they're dealing with — and getting the right diagnosis matters because it shapes the most effective treatment plan.

What Is Panic Disorder?

Panic disorder is defined by recurrent, unexpected panic attacks — sudden surges of intense fear that peak within minutes. During an attack, you might experience a pounding heart, chest pain, shortness of breath, dizziness, tingling, or a terrifying feeling that you're losing control or dying. The attacks often seem to come out of nowhere, which leads to persistent worry about when the next one will strike.

What Is Generalized Anxiety Disorder?

GAD is characterized by chronic, excessive worry about a wide range of everyday concerns — work, health, family, finances — that persists for six months or more. Unlike panic attacks, GAD doesn't come in dramatic surges. Instead, it's a constant background hum of tension, restlessness, fatigue, and difficulty concentrating that colors every part of your day.

5 Key Differences

  1. Onset pattern: Panic disorder hits suddenly and intensely. GAD builds gradually and persists chronically.
  2. Duration of episodes: Panic attacks typically last 10–30 minutes. GAD symptoms are present most of the day, most days.
  3. Physical symptoms: Panic disorder produces acute symptoms (chest pain, choking sensation, trembling). GAD produces chronic symptoms (muscle tension, headaches, fatigue).
  4. Fear focus: People with panic disorder fear the attacks themselves. People with GAD worry about life circumstances and "what if" scenarios.
  5. Avoidance behavior: Panic disorder often leads to avoiding specific places or situations. GAD leads to general over-preparation and control-seeking behavior.

Can You Have Both?

Yes — and it's more common than you might think. Many patients we see at our Lilburn practice experience both chronic worry and occasional panic attacks. A thorough psychiatric evaluation helps tease apart the overlapping symptoms so treatment can address both conditions.

Treatment Options

Both conditions respond well to SSRIs and SNRIs. Panic disorder may also benefit from targeted use of benzodiazepines for acute episodes, while GAD often improves with buspirone or certain anticonvulsants. At Next Step Psychiatry, we tailor medication plans to each patient's specific symptom profile, lifestyle, and treatment history.

Schedule Your Evaluation

Whether you're dealing with panic attacks, persistent worry, or both, clarity starts with a proper evaluation. Contact Next Step Psychiatry at 678-437-1659 — serving Lilburn, Lawrenceville, Snellville, Stone Mountain, and greater Atlanta.

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