Panic Attack Self-Test

This self-test is not a clinical assessment and cannot diagnose panic disorder or any other condition. It’s designed to help you reflect on experiences that may be worth discussing with a mental health professional. If you have ever experienced symptoms that could signal a cardiac or medical emergency, such as chest pain, shortness of breath or numbness, and have not been evaluated by a doctor, please seek medical attention first. Whatever your result here, if you have concerns about your mental health, speaking with a qualified clinician is always the right next step.

A panic attack is a sudden surge of intense fear or discomfort that peaks within minutes and involves four or more of the following symptoms:

• Racing or pounding heart (palpitations)
• Sweating
• Trembling or shaking
• Shortness of breath or feeling smothered
• Chest pain or tightness
• Nausea or stomach distress
• Dizziness, unsteadiness or feeling faint
• Chills or hot flushes
• Numbness or tingling sensations
• Feeling detached from yourself or unreal (derealization or depersonalization)
• Fear of losing control or “going crazy”
• Fear of dying

Panic attacks typically peak within 10 minutes and subside within 20 to 30 minutes. They can occur with an obvious trigger or completely out of nowhere, including during sleep. If you have experienced episodes like this, even once, the questions below may help you reflect on your experience.

Note: If you’re unsure whether your symptoms were panic or a medical issue, please speak with your doctor before drawing conclusions. Panic attacks and cardiac events can feel similar. A medical evaluation is always the right first step when chest pain or breathing difficulties are involved.