This information is taken from several sources, as well as, my own experiences. To the best of my knowledge it is correct. If some part is not clear, please let me know.

Question: Are panic attacks new?

Answer: No. They were described in medical literature over 100 years ago.

Question: Are they becoming more common?

Answer: It seems so but it could be due to better diagnoses, a greater public awareness, and more information being available. Some people think our more stressful lifestyle is a contributing factor.

Question: Do men and women both develop anxiety/panic attacks?

Answer: Yes, but more women than men seem to develop them. Some alcohol programs believe that some men tend to start drinking excessively in an effort to overcome anxiety.

Question: Can people of any age have anxiety/panic attacks?

Answer: Yes.

Question: Are people who suffer from anxiety/panic attacks sane?

Answer: Absolutely. However, until diagnosed and assured, it is not uncommon for the people to feel they are going insane.

Question: Can you tell if a person is having a panic attack?

Answer: In many cases no. They look and act as though nothing is wrong. However, in the midst of a panic attack, they may suddenly have to bolt for the nearest exit without regard to anything else.

Question: What causes anxiety/panic attacks?

Answer: There are various ideas. Some feel it is genetics, others believe past environment - particularly the environment in which they grew up. Still others say a combination of the above, and there are those who say none of the above. --- Regardless of the cause, it is a chemical imbalance in the brain. Diabetes is a chemical imbalance and so are panic attacks.

Question: How often do panic attacks occur?

Answer: From one every few years; to several a day.

Question: What is anticipatory anxiety?

Answer: It's rather like stage fright which some actors experience before going on stage. The actor overcomes it and goes out onto the stage. In the case of people with panic attacks, the stage is the area outside of their safe zones. They have an anxiety that they may have a panic attack. If they do not leave their safe zone because of the anticipatory anxiety, they have developed agoraphobia.

Question: What is agoraphobia?

Answer: If a person becomes uncomfortable or develops panic attacks when they leave the house or a certain part of the house, then agoraphobia is present. It is very difficult, if not impossible for them to venture very far from their comfortable area or safe spot.

Question: Are safe spots always in the house?

Answer: Not always. There may be additional safe areas, such as, in the office, etc.

Question: Why do elevators, bank line-ups, etc. cause anxiety to build up?

Answer: The person is trapped. An escape route is not readily available.

Question: Do all people with anxiety/panic attacks show the same symptoms?

Answer: No. Some may be perfectly all right driving while others have a terrible time. The same is true of various situations.