A sudden episode of intense fear that triggers severe physical reactions — racing heart, shortness of breath, dizziness — when there is no real danger.
From Greek 'panikos' meaning 'of or for Pan,' the god whose appearance caused terror + Old French 'ataque.' Terror striking suddenly.
A panic attack feels like you're dying — your heart races, you can't breathe, the world spins. But it's your alarm system misfiring, and it WILL pass.
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