A symptom checklist to help clients reflect on experiences of panic attacks and explore whether a professional assessment may be helpful.
Offers theory, guidance, and prompts for mental health professionals. Downloads are in Fillable PDF format where appropriate.
Includes client-friendly guidance. Downloads are in Fillable PDF format where appropriate.
Panic attacks are sudden episodes of intense fear or discomfort that peak within minutes and are accompanied by a range of physical and psychological symptoms. They are relatively common, but can feel frightening or overwhelming. This symptom checklist is informed by DSM-5 and ICD-11 diagnostic criteria and helps clinicians and clients explore whether a person's experiences may be consistent with panic attacks. It is not intended to provide a diagnosis or assess severity, but it can support early discussions about whether further evaluation is warranted.
Panic attacks are frequently under-recognised. This resource:
For individuals who report sudden episodes of intense fear or physical symptoms like heart racing or shortness of breath.
Gently introduce the possibility of panic attacks using the suggested therapeutic prompt.
Work through the checklist together, identifying physical and cognitive symptoms.
Reflect on symptom frequency and the client’s level of distress.
Use the results to guide further assessment, psychoeducation, or formulation.
The DSM-5 defines a panic attack as an abrupt surge of intense fear or discomfort that peaks within minutes, accompanied by at least four of thirteen possible symptoms, including palpitations, trembling, chest pain, and fear of dying. The ICD-11 provides a nearly identical description, noting that the episodes involve rapid onset of symptoms such as dizziness, choking, depersonalization, or fear of losing control.
Panic attacks are distinct from general anxiety in their suddenness and intensity. While many people experience at least one panic attack in their lifetime, only a subset go on to develop panic disorder, which is characterized by persistent worry about having more attacks or behavioral changes in response to them.
This symptom checklist is informed by both DSM-5 and ICD-11 criteria. It is not intended to provide a formal diagnosis or assess severity but may support early recognition and therapeutic exploration. Clinicians can use it to validate a client’s experiences and facilitate conversations that may lead to further assessment.
