Which is worse, Generalized Anxiety Disorder or Panic Disorder?

[Melanie717]

For the longest time, I honestly believed they were pretty much the same thing.
In fact, I thought Panic Disorder seemed more serious. (I have GAD.)

Turns out, Panic Disorder means you are more prone to panicking in certain situations, along with panic attacks.
Whereas GAD - Generalized Anxiety Disorder is almost constant anxiety.
So even when a person is calm, there is still some low-grade anxiety running in the background. It can be a feeling of anxiety for no apparent reason, so the mind will create a problem or a worry to match the anxious feeling.
People with GAD also experience panic attacks, but their minds give them reason to, almost made-up scenarios to bring on the feeling of panic.

Which do you suffer from?
Do you think it’s possible to have both?
Is one worse than the other?

 

[Morgana]

I would venture to say that panic disorder would be worse as it comes on out of the blue without warning. How does one manage that?

 

[Shree]

Both Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) and Panic Disorder are challenging, but as far as I have learned GAD can feel more exhausting due to constant, ongoing worry. But certainly Panic Disorder's sudden, intense episodes are terrifying. Each affects individuals differently, making comparison difficult, and I believe both deserve attention and care.

 

[Melanie717]

I would venture to say that panic disorder would be worse as it comes on out of the blue without warning. How does one manage that?

Great question, I’d love the answer to that one myself. I guess just sit through it? Breathing techniques (?)
1/2 benzo under the tongue? Pick your poison.
I can’t stand the feeling of panic, and worse yet, the damage it does to the body over time.

 

[Melanie717]

Both Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) and Panic Disorder are challenging, but as far as I have learned GAD can feel more exhausting due to constant, ongoing worry. But certainly Panic Disorder's sudden, intense episodes are terrifying. Each affects individuals differently, making comparison difficult, and I believe both deserve attention and care.

Agreed. They are destructive in their own ways. Would you rather have constant, low-key anxiety that ramps up from time to time, or a sudden rush of panic with no warning.. both awful.