A panic attack is when someone experiences an abrupt onset of intense fear or worry even if there's no obvious reason. While a traumatic event can trigger panic attacks, they may occur out of nowhere. Research shows that panic disorder affects approximately 1-3% of teens.
The "What is a Panic Attack?" handout simplifies the understanding of this experience and empowers clients to recognize and manage panic attacks. It explains the panic attack cycle, how it differs from anxiety, treatments, and quick tips to overcome it.
This handout can help young people feel more reassured knowing that there are effective ways to manage their symptoms. For added support, it can be paired with our Panic Attack Coping Skills handout, which offers a variety of coping techniques for panic attacks.
After reviewing the handout, parents and teachers can create a panic attack response card with key strategies to support kids and teens during episodes. They can also print the coping skills handout and keep it in their bedroom or school binder, so they can easily practice calming techniques whenever needed.
*This item is an instant digital download. A link to download your files will be emailed to you once payment is confirmed.
Want more resources like this? Check out our full catalog of anxiety worksheets and handouts.
References:
- Baker, H. J., Hollywood, A., & Waite, P. (2022). Adolescents’ lived experience of panic disorder: An interpretative phenomenological analysis. BMC Psychology, 10(1). https://doi.org/10.1186/s40359-022-00849-x
- Diler, R. S. (2003). Panic disorder in children and adolescents. Yonsei Medical Journal, 44(1), 174. https://doi.org/10.3349/ymj.2003.44.1.174
- Hewitt, O. M., Tomlin, A., & Waite, P. (2021). The experience of panic attacks in adolescents: An interpretative phenomenological analysis study. Emotional and Behavioural Difficulties, 26(3), 240-253. https://doi.org/10.1080/13632752.2021.1948742
- Macaulay, J. L., & Kleinknecht, R. A. (1989). Panic and panic attacks in adolescents. Journal of Anxiety Disorders, 3(4), 221-241. https://doi.org/10.1016/0887-6185(89)90016-9
