Panic Disorder

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The diagnostic criteria for Panic Disorder are outlined in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5), published by the American Psychiatric Association. The criteria are as follows:

A. Recurrent Unexpected Panic Attacks:

A panic attack is an abrupt surge of intense fear or discomfort that reaches a peak within minutes, and during which time four (or more) of the following symptoms occur:

- Palpitations, pounding heart, or accelerated heart rate.

- Sweating.

- Trembling or shaking.

- Sensations of shortness of breath or smothering.

- Feelings of choking.

- Chest pain or discomfort.

- Nausea or abdominal distress.

- Feeling dizzy, unsteady, light-headed, or faint.

- Chills or heat sensations.

- Paresthesias (numbness or tingling sensations).

- Derealization (feelings of unreality) or depersonalization (being detached from oneself).

- Fear of losing control or "going crazy."

- Fear of dying.

B. At least one of the attacks has been followed by one month (or more) of one or both of the following:

- Ongoing worry or fear about experiencing more panic attacks or their potential outcomes (such as losing control, having a heart attack, or "going crazy").

- Notable changes in behavior aimed at avoiding panic attacks

C. The disturbance is not attributable to the physiological effects of a substance (e.g., a drug of abuse, a medication) or another medical condition (e.g., hyperthyroidism, cardiopulmonary disorders).

D. The disturbance is not better explained by another mental disorder.

It's important to have a thorough evaluation by a qualified mental health professional to accurately diagnose and differentiate Panic Disorder from other possible conditions.

Reference:

American Psychiatric Association. (2013). *Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders* (5th ed.). Arlington, VA: American Psychiatric Publishing.