What Happens in the Brain During a Panic Attack?

A panic attack can feel like an avalanche of fear and physical sensations, often coming on suddenly and leaving a person feeling overwhelmed and out of control. But what’s happening in the brain during these intense episodes?

At the heart of a panic attack is the amygdala—a small, almond-shaped region in the brain responsible for detecting and responding to threats. When the amygdala senses danger (even if it’s not real), it triggers the “fight-or-flight” response, flooding the body with adrenaline and other stress hormones. This rush prepares us to act quickly in the face of danger by speeding up our heart rate, raising blood pressure, and heightening awareness. This process happens automatically, and during a panic attack, it can kick in even if there’s no actual threat present.

The prefrontal cortex, which helps us interpret and rationalize experiences, is also affected.

During a panic attack, it’s as if the prefrontal cortex is momentarily overpowered by the amygdala’s emergency response. This is why it can be so difficult to “think” your way out of a panic attack; the rational part of your brain is essentially sidelined by the instinct to escape.

The body’s reaction to these signals can be intense: rapid heart rate, shortness of breath, dizziness, sweating, and even a sense of detachment from reality. This heightened state often feels terrifying, which can reinforce the brain’s belief that something is wrong, creating a cycle of escalating fear.

So, what's the solution?

Over time, understanding these processes can be empowering. Techniques like deep breathing, grounding exercises, and mindful awareness can help signal to the amygdala that it’s safe to stand down, gradually helping individuals manage and reduce the intensity of panic attacks. Knowing that these episodes stem from a natural brain process can be the first step in reclaiming control and finding peace amidst the storm.

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