Anxiety attacks are a common phenomenon that affects millions of people worldwide. It is a sudden onset of intense fear or panic that can be debilitating and overwhelming. Anxiety attacks can occur without warning and can be triggered by a variety of factors, including stress, trauma, or even genetics.
Definitions
Anxiety attacks, also known as panic attacks, are sudden episodes of intense fear or discomfort that can last for a few minutes or several hours. According to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5), anxiety attacks are characterized by a sudden onset of intense fear or discomfort, accompanied by physical symptoms such as sweating, heart palpitations, and shortness of breath.
Origin
The origin of anxiety attacks is not fully understood, but it is believed to be a combination of genetic, environmental, and psychological factors. Some studies suggest that anxiety attacks may be caused by an imbalance of chemicals in the brain, such as serotonin and dopamine.
Meaning in different dictionaries
According to the Merriam-Webster dictionary, anxiety attacks are defined as “a sudden and overwhelming feeling of fear or panic.” The Oxford English Dictionary defines anxiety attacks as “a sudden and intense feeling of fear or panic, often accompanied by physical symptoms such as sweating, trembling, and rapid heartbeat.”
Associations
Anxiety attacks are often associated with anxiety disorders, such as generalized anxiety disorder, social anxiety disorder, and panic disorder. They can also be triggered by stressful life events, such as a traumatic experience or a major life change.
Synonyms
Some synonyms for anxiety attacks include panic attacks, nervous breakdowns, and acute anxiety.
Antonyms
There are no direct antonyms for anxiety attacks, but some opposite words may include calmness, tranquility, and serenity.
The same root words
Some words that share the same root as anxiety attacks include anxious, anxiety, and anxiously.
Example Sentences
- “She experienced an anxiety attack while driving on the highway.”
- “He was diagnosed with panic disorder after experiencing frequent anxiety attacks.”
- “She learned coping mechanisms to manage her anxiety attacks.”