Anxiety or Panic Attacks? Here’s How to Tell. And What to Do About It
If you’re ambitious, high-functioning, and secretly unraveling, you’re not broken. You just need the right kind of help.
The Pain Point
You’re exhausted. Every time you start making progress in your career or relationships… boom, your chest tightens, your heart races, and your mind spirals.
Maybe it’s constant background anxiety.
Maybe it’s full-on panic attacks.
Or maybe you’re not sure what to call it, you just know it’s messing with your life.
Here’s the truth:
Anxiety and panic attacks are different and need different approaches.
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Anxiety is like a slow, constant hum of fear, worry, and tension.
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Panic feels like it drops out of nowhere, a full-body alarm bell that hijacks your brain and body.
Either way, they’re not just “in your head.” They’re often signs of deeper patterns that can be rewired.
What is an Anxiety Attack?
Anxiety attacks are typically tied to specific stressors or ongoing worries. They tend to build gradually over time and may be associated with excessive fear, worry, or nervousness about everyday situations.
Common Symptoms of Anxiety Attacks:
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Restlessness or feeling on edge
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Fatigue or trouble sleeping
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Difficulty concentrating
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Increased heart rate or shortness of breath
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Muscle tension
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Irritability
Anxiety attacks often occur in response to certain triggers, whether it’s work, relationships, health concerns, or life transitions. While distressing, they are generally manageable with the right support, tools, and therapy.
People's Stories
Someone felt intense anxiety attacks every time they took an exam. On the outside, no one noticed, but inside, their mind were spinning with overthinking and negative loops.
Another person experienced anxiety attack symptoms in crowded places, caught in an overwhelming cycle of feeling judged and on edge.
What is a Panic Attack?
Panic attacks seem to come on suddenly and can feel overwhelming and intense. Unlike anxiety attacks, they may not always be connected to a clear trigger. Panic attacks often peak within minutes and can cause a real sense of danger or fear of losing control.
Common Symptoms of Panic Attacks:
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Rapid, pounding heartbeat
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Sweating or chills
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Chest pain or tightness
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Trembling or shaking
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Shortness of breath or choking sensations
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Nausea or dizziness
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Fear of dying or going crazy
Panic attacks can be incredibly frightening, especially when experienced for the first time. Many people fear they’re having a medical emergency, such as a heart attack.
People's Stories
One person was boarding a plane when a sudden panic attack hit, heart racing, body frozen, unable to move.
Another was in the middle of a career-defining presentation when anxiety took over, leaving them unable to speak or finish.
How Therapy Can Help
I’m Lourdes Ibarra, a licensed therapist who helps ambitious young adults heal anxiety, fears, and trauma without dragging it out for years. The goal is to help young adults discontinue the sabotaging of their careers and relationships. I help people get to the root, so your mind and body work for them, not against them.
Whether you're struggling with anxiety attacks, panic attacks, or both, therapy provides a safe and supportive space to better understand your symptoms and regain control.
We work together by identifying underlying triggers, challenging unhelpful thought patterns, and developing grounding tools and coping strategies that work.
You’re Not Alone
Living with anxiety or panic can feel isolating, but it doesn’t have to be. Healing is possible. Therapy offers not just symptom relief, but a deeper understanding of yourself and what you need to feel safe, calm, and in control.
Ready to take the first step? Reach out today to schedule your first session. Let’s work together to help you breathe easier and move forward with confidence.
