Understanding Anxiety and Panic Attacks: Recognizing the Signs and Getting Help
At Dr. Iospa Psychiatry Consulting Group in Midtown Manhattan, we often see patients overwhelmed by anxiety or sudden panic attacks — sometimes without fully understanding what’s happening.
Anxiety and panic attacks can disrupt your daily life, making even simple tasks feel daunting. Many people don’t recognize the symptoms or think they have to “live with it.”
If you’re wondering whether your worry, tension, or sudden fear is more than normal stress, here’s what you should know.
What Is Anxiety?
Anxiety is a natural response to stress — it prepares your body to react to danger. But when anxiety becomes persistent or excessive, it interferes with your life.
People with anxiety disorders may experience:
- Constant worry or fear that’s hard to control
- Restlessness or feeling “on edge”
- Difficulty concentrating or mind going blank
- Physical symptoms like muscle tension or headaches
In New York City, the fast pace and high demands can worsen anxiety, especially if untreated.
Recognizing Panic Attacks
Panic attacks are sudden, intense bursts of fear or discomfort peaking within minutes. They can happen unexpectedly or be triggered.
Common symptoms include:
- Racing heart or palpitations
- Shortness of breath or feeling smothered
- Chest pain or tightness
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
- Sweating, chills, or hot flashes
- Feeling detached from reality or fear of dying
Many patients in our Midtown practice describe panic attacks as feeling like a heart attack or losing control.
How Anxiety and Panic Affect Daily Life
Anxiety and panic attacks can cause:
- Avoidance of social situations, work, or crowds
- Trouble sleeping or focusing
- Physical exhaustion from constant tension
- Strained relationships due to irritability or withdrawal
One patient, a Midtown financial analyst, avoided meetings due to anxiety — affecting his career and personal life.
Types of Anxiety Disorders
Anxiety can present differently:
- Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD): Persistent worry about everyday things
- Social Anxiety: Fear of judgment in social settings
- Panic Disorder: Repeated panic attacks with fear of future ones
- Specific Phobias: Intense fear of particular objects or situations
Recognizing your symptoms is key to effective management.
When to Seek Professional Help
If anxiety or panic attacks interfere with work, relationships, or daily activities — or you avoid places or people because of fear — it’s time to seek support.
At Dr. Iospa Psychiatry Consulting Group, we offer personalized evaluation and treatment in Midtown Manhattan, in-person and via telehealth.
Effective Treatment Options
Treatment may include:
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): Change anxiety-provoking thoughts
- Medication: SSRIs, short-term benzodiazepines, or other anxiolytics
- Relaxation Techniques: Mindfulness, breathing exercises, progressive muscle relaxation
- Lifestyle Adjustments: Exercise, sleep hygiene, and nutrition
Our team tailors care to your lifestyle and goals.
Ready to Take Control of Anxiety?
Anxiety and panic attacks are treatable. With the right care, you can regain confidence and peace of mind.
Need support?
We offer in-person and video appointments in Midtown NYC. Contact Dr. Iospa Psychiatry Consulting Group to schedule a consultation with a board-certified psychiatrist or therapist.