Which disorder is characterized by sudden, intense episodes of fear lasting several minutes with symptoms such as rapid heartbeat and shortness of breath?

• A. Generalized Anxiety Disorder
• B. Panic Disorder
• C. OCD
• D. Social Anxiety Disorder

Answer: (B)

Panic attacks are sudden, intense surges of fear that peak within minutes and bring along physical symptoms like a racing heart and shortness of breath, along with chest tightness, sweating, or dizziness. When these attacks happen repeatedly and the person becomes preoccupied with the fear of having another attack or changes their behavior to avoid situations that might trigger one, the pattern is Panic Disorder.

Generalized Anxiety Disorder involves chronic worry and tension about many aspects of life over long periods, not discrete, rapid episodes. OCD centers on persistent intrusive thoughts paired with repetitive behaviors. Social Anxiety Disorder is fear of social or performance situations due to concern about negative evaluation, not primarily about sudden panic attacks.