What is the key symptom of a panic attack?

The key symptom of a panic attack is feelings of impending doom or severe anxiety. During a panic attack, individuals often experience a sudden onset of intense fear or discomfort that reaches a peak within minutes. This acute anxiety can be accompanied by physical symptoms such as rapid heart rate, shortness of breath, and dizziness. The overwhelming feeling of dread or impending doom can be particularly distressing and is a hallmark feature of panic attacks, distinguishing them from other anxiety disorders.

While persistent worry about multiple issues is characteristic of generalized anxiety disorder, severe phobic reactions are more closely associated with specific phobias, and social withdrawal can be seen in various mental health conditions, including social anxiety disorder. None of these alternatives capture the immediate and intense experience of fear that defines a panic attack, making feelings of impending doom or severe anxiety the most representative symptom.