How Long Can Anxiety Attacks Last?

Anxiety attacks can feel like a never-ending storm, crashing over you and drowning you in a sea of panic and dread. But how long can this emotional rollercoaster last? It’s a question that many people struggling with anxiety often ask, especially when they’re in the midst of a panic attack. The unpredictability of an anxiety attack, from the sudden onset to the overwhelming feelings of fear, can make it difficult to grasp when it will end. In this blog, we’ll dive into the science of anxiety attack duration and provide helpful insights on how to cope with them. So, let’s break free from the confusion and shed light on how long panic attacks can really last.

Table of Contents

1. What Exactly Is an Anxiety Attack?

An anxiety attack, also called a panic attack, is a sudden wave of intense fear or discomfort that peaks within minutes. It’s not just an emotional feeling but a full-body experience, with physical symptoms like rapid heartbeat, chest pain, shortness of breath, dizziness, and a sense of impending doom. These attacks often come without warning, and when they hit, they can be incredibly distressing. But what makes a panic attack even more unnerving is not knowing how long it will last.

2. How Long Can Anxiety Attacks Last?

The duration of anxiety attacks varies from person to person, but most attacks peak within 10 minutes and typically last anywhere from 15 to 30 minutes. For some, the symptoms can subside faster, while for others, the aftermath of an anxiety attack may linger for hours. The good news is that even though anxiety attacks can feel like they’ll last forever, the worst of the symptoms usually subside after around 30 minutes.

However, it’s important to note that a person may experience what’s known as an “extended panic episode.” This happens when the anxiety attack continues in waves, with the person experiencing a cycle of relief followed by new waves of fear or discomfort. These prolonged episodes can make it seem as though the anxiety attack is lasting much longer than it really is.

3. The Duration of Panic Attacks vs. Anxiety Attacks

You might have heard the terms “panic attack” and “anxiety attack” used interchangeably, but they are not exactly the same thing. While both involve intense feelings of fear or dread, panic attacks tend to be more severe and sudden, often involving physical symptoms like shaking or chest pain. Anxiety attacks, on the other hand, are more gradual and tend to be related to specific stressors or concerns.

The duration of panic attacks is often shorter than anxiety attacks. Panic attacks tend to peak within 10 minutes and last no longer than 30 minutes, while anxiety attacks might last longer, especially if they are triggered by ongoing stress. Regardless of the type, understanding the potential length of either can help individuals prepare and manage symptoms more effectively.

4. How Do Panic Disorder Symptoms Impact Attack Duration?

People who suffer from panic disorder are more likely to experience frequent and intense attacks. Panic disorder involves recurring episodes of unexpected panic attacks, often accompanied by persistent worry about future attacks. This chronic anxiety can lead to longer or more intense attacks as the body becomes more sensitized to stressors.

A person with panic disorder may also experience a phenomenon known as “anticipatory anxiety,” where they begin to worry about an upcoming attack. This can actually prolong the episode, causing it to feel like it lasts much longer than it would otherwise.

5. Coping With Anxiety Attacks: Helpful Tips

If you or someone you know experiences panic attacks, knowing how to cope with them is essential. Here are some tips to help manage and shorten the duration of an attack:

• Focus on Your Breathing: Slow, deep breaths can help calm your nervous system. Try the 4-7-8 breathing technique: inhale for 4 seconds, hold for 7 seconds, and exhale for 8 seconds.

• Ground Yourself: Grounding techniques can help redirect your focus away from the overwhelming feelings of anxiety. Try the “5-4-3-2-1” technique, where you identify 5 things you can see, 4 you can touch, 3 you can hear, 2 you can smell, and 1 you can taste.

• Stay Present: Remind yourself that the attack will pass. Reassure yourself that the feelings you are experiencing, although overwhelming, are temporary.

• Progressive Muscle Relaxation: Gently tense and then release different muscle groups to help relax the body and reduce physical tension.

• Avoid Self-Criticism: It’s easy to feel embarrassed or frustrated by an attack, but self-criticism can make things worse. Be kind to yourself and acknowledge the courage it takes to face these attacks head-on.

6. When Should You Seek Help? Emergency Anxiety Attacks

While most anxiety attacks are temporary, some may require medical intervention, especially when symptoms are severe or persistent. An “emergency anxiety attack” refers to a situation where the symptoms are so intense that immediate medical attention is needed. This is particularly true if the symptoms resemble those of a heart attack (e.g., chest pain, shortness of breath, dizziness), or if the person is unable to regain control of their breathing or emotions.

If you or someone else is experiencing an anxiety attack that doesn’t subside or worsens over time, it’s important to seek help from a healthcare provider. In severe cases, it may be necessary to go to an emergency room like The Heights Emergency Room in Houston, where the staff is trained to provide compassionate care for individuals experiencing emotional or physical crises.

7. The Heights Emergency Room: Your Lifeline in an Emergency

If you’re in Houston and experiencing an attack or panic episode that feels like it’s spiraling out of control, The Heights Emergency Room is here to help. Our ER provides 24/7 care with no wait times, ensuring that you can get the treatment you need when you need it the most. We offer advanced on-site diagnostics, and our staff is equipped to manage both emotional and physical symptoms that can occur during panic episodes.

Whether you’re dealing with a panic attack or anxiety episode, our team is dedicated to offering compassionate, patient-focused treatment. You don’t have to face these overwhelming moments alone — we’re here to support you every step of the way.

8. Final Thoughts

Understanding how long an attack can last is an important part of managing your mental health. While the typical duration of a panic attack may only last between 15 to 30 minutes, the symptoms can feel much longer, especially if you’re experiencing a cycle of panic. Knowing the length of these episodes can provide a sense of control and reassurance.

If you or a loved one is experiencing an anxiety attack or panic disorder symptoms, remember that you’re not alone. The Heights Emergency Room is always available for immediate care. With 24/7 cardiac care, advanced diagnostics, and patient-focused treatment, we’re here to help you through those difficult moments. If you need help managing your panic attack, don’t hesitate to contact us. We’re ready to provide the care and support you deserve.

Disclaimer
This blog is intended for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. If you are experiencing symptoms of an anxiety or panic attack, especially if they include chest pain, difficulty breathing, or a feeling of losing control, please seek medical attention immediately. For emergency care, visit The Heights Emergency Room in Houston or your nearest emergency facility.