Panic disorder is best described as which?

Panic disorder is best described as which?

• A. An anxiety disorder marked by unpredictable, minutes-long episodes of intense dread with chest pain or similar symptoms, often followed by worry about a possible next attack
• B. A mood disorder
• C. A personality disorder
• D. A substance-induced disorder

Answer: (A)

Panic disorder centers on recurrent, unexpected panic attacks—sudden surges of intense fear with physical symptoms such as chest pain, heart racing, shortness of breath, or dizziness. These attacks are often brief, lasting minutes, and people with panic disorder develop persistent worry about having more attacks or change their behavior to avoid situations that might trigger them. That combination of unpredictable attacks and ongoing anticipatory anxiety is what defines the condition. The other options don’t fit because a mood disorder centers on persistent mood changes, a personality disorder involves enduring patterns of behavior and inner experience, and a substance-induced disorder stems from the effects of a substance or withdrawal rather than spontaneous panic attacks and the fear of future attacks.

Panic disorder centers on recurrent, unexpected panic attacks—sudden surges of intense fear with physical symptoms such as chest pain, heart racing, shortness of breath, or dizziness. These attacks are often brief, lasting minutes, and people with panic disorder develop persistent worry about having more attacks or change their behavior to avoid situations that might trigger them. That combination of unpredictable attacks and ongoing anticipatory anxiety is what defines the condition. The other options don’t fit because a mood disorder centers on persistent mood changes, a personality disorder involves enduring patterns of behavior and inner experience, and a substance-induced disorder stems from the effects of a substance or withdrawal rather than spontaneous panic attacks and the fear of future attacks.