I did some research to try and understand what was happening to me.  I looked for an explanation on the internet and in books at the library.  I discovered that during a panic attack, the danger often lurks in the unconscious rather than the environment.  The threat originates with one’s feelings, desires, and thoughts.  The danger is not a physical one, but is perceived to be no less real.  When one perceives psychological danger, the body often interprets it as a physical danger and triggers fight or flight.  The signs of this state can be physical; tension in our muscles, headache, upset stomach, racing heartbeat, deep sighing or shallow breathing; or emotional/psychological; anxiety, poor concentration, depression, hopelessness, frustration, anger, sadness or fear. 

© Salahub 2003