Which term describes the sudden onset of intense fear or discomfort?

• A. Panic Attacks
• B. General Anxiety Disorder
• C. Acute Stress Reaction
• D. Panic Episodes

Answer: (A)

Panic attacks are defined by an abrupt surge of intense fear or discomfort that reaches its peak within minutes and is usually accompanied by physical symptoms such as heart racing, sweating, trembling, shortness of breath, or a sense of impending doom. This immediate, overwhelming onset matches the description in the question, making “panic attacks” the best fit for the term.

Generalized Anxiety Disorder involves persistent, excessive worry across many areas for months, not a sudden rush of fear. Acute Stress Reaction (or Acute Stress Disorder) occurs after a traumatic event and centers on a broader stress response rather than the sudden panicked surge. Panic episodes isn’t the standard clinical label for this phenomenon.