Who Most Commonly Suffer from Panic Attacks? What are the Risk Factors?

Who Most Commonly Suffer from Panic Attacks?

Panic attack is a condition that manifests itself with a sudden and intense wave of fear and is characterised by physical and emotional symptoms. These crises, which occur with symptoms such as shortness of breath, palpitations, dizziness, usually develop suddenly without a triggering cause. Research shows that some individuals are more prone to this condition.

1. Women are more at risk

Studies show that panic disorder is more common in women than in men. The reasons for this may include the effect of hormonal changes, ways of coping with stress and the pressures created by social roles. Especially the menstrual cycle, pregnancy and menopause periods can cause more intense panic attacks.

2. Young adults are more affected

Panic attacks usually occur in the early 20s and in many people the first attacks occur during adolescence and early adulthood. During young adulthood, difficulties such as identity development, gaining independence, worries about the future, stress, starting a job or family responsibilities may trigger the onset of panic attacks. The incidence of panic attacks may decrease with age, but if left untreated, they carry the risk of becoming chronic.

3. People with Panic Disorder in the Family

Genetic predisposition is an important factor in the development of panic disorder. People whose family members have a history of anxiety disorders or panic attacks are at higher risk. This is thought to be both genetic and learnt. However, genetic predisposition alone is not decisive; environmental factors and life experiences are also largely influential.

4. Those Under Intense Stress

Intense stressors such as losses, job loss, divorce, death of a loved one, heavy workload, financial concerns or relationship problems may increase the individual's anxiety level and increase the risk of developing panic disorder. Panic attacks are more common in individuals who are exposed to trauma, such as an accident, natural disaster or attack.

5. Personality Structures with High Anxiety Levels

Some personality traits may lead to being more prone to panic attacks. Individuals with perfectionist, hypersensitive, anxious or controlling personalities may have more difficulty in stressful situations. People who feel under constant pressure or are disturbed by uncertainty may experience panic attacks more often.

6. Caffeine and Stimulant Use

Stimulants such as excessive caffeine consumption, energy drinks or nicotine can have effects on the body that mimic a panic attack. Symptoms such as increased heart rate, trembling, feeling of restlessness can trigger a panic attack or worsen existing symptoms.

7. Insomnia and Irregular Lifestyle

Irregular sleep can weaken the body's ability to cope with stress and increase anxiety levels. Lack of sleep can affect stress-related hormones in the brain, leading to more frequent panic attacks.

8. Association with other psychiatric disorders

It can occur in combination with other psychological disorders such as depression, generalised anxiety disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The risk of panic attacks is higher especially in individuals under chronic stress.

Conclusion

Although panic disorder is more common in certain risk groups, it is a condition that anyone can experience. Gaining awareness, identifying triggers and getting professional support helps to control panic attacks.