Here’s the biggest fact out there about anxiety disorder: it effects 18% of Americans, or about 40 million people. One of the biggest features of anxiety disorder is the panic attack. By definition, a panic attack is:

The abrupt onset of fear or discomfort that reaches a peak within minutes and includes a variety of symptoms, at least four of the following:

• Heart palpitations
• Sweating
• Choking feelings
• Chest discomfort
• Shortness of breath
• Shaking
• Chills or hot flashes
• Numbness or tingling sensations
• Unreal feelings
• Being detached from yourself
• Fear of dying
• Fear of losing control

Stress and anxiety can impact all of us and even has real uses in our lives. It can tell us when we need to be on guard and can drive us to getting our work done. It’s problematic when it becomes chronic.

Many anxious people are very empathic and caring people. They worry for those they care about. This anxiety can make it hard to function in every day life, as well as embracing what they love about themselves.

One thing to know about people with anxiety is that if they suffer from panic attacks, know that it’s not who they are and not a life sentence. These symptoms can be improved, allowing a person to heal. It may take the work of a licensed therapist and lots of support from friends, but it can be done.