When Anxiety Feels Like an Emergency
Teenagers experience stress in many forms: school pressure, social changes, family expectations, and digital overload. While some level of anxiety is expected, there are times when emotional distress escalates into a full-blown panic attack. When that happens, it can look and feel exactly like a medical emergency.
For parents and caregivers, it’s difficult to know whether a teen is experiencing a psychiatric crisis or something more physical. Understanding the signs of a panic attack can make all the difference in helping your teen feel safe and supported.
What a Panic Attack Looks Like in Teens
Panic attacks can come on suddenly and include physical symptoms that mimic other health problems. These can include:
- Rapid heart rate or chest pain
- Sudden urge to escape their current situation or environment immediately
- Shortness of breath or feeling like they can’t breathe
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
- Shaking, trembling, or muscle tension
- Nausea or stomach pain
- Numbness or tingling in hands or face
- Chills or sweating
- A strong fear of losing control or “going crazy”
Teens may also report feeling detached from their surroundings or believe they are dying, which makes the experience even more frightening. Symptoms usually peak within 10-15 minutes, and can feel overwhelming and leave lingering fatigue and fear of recurrence.
Common Triggers in Teens
Some panic attacks happen without a clear trigger, but common causes among adolescents include:
- High-pressure academic environments
- Bullying or peer conflict
- Social media stress
- Family issues or trauma
- Past medical procedures or ER visits
- Fear of failure or rejection
- Underlying anxiety disorders or depression
- Sudden changes in routine, such as a move or divorce
Teens may not have the language or self-awareness to explain what they’re feeling, so these physical symptoms often become the focus.
When Should a Parent Worry?
It’s not always easy to tell whether a panic attack is happening or if another serious issue is to blame. Seek emergency care if your teen experiences:
- Chest pain or difficulty breathing that doesn’t ease after several minutes
- Fainting, confusion, or slurred speech
- Unusual behavior or loss of awareness
- Rapid breathing or hyperventilation that doesn’t slow down
- Persistent vomiting or shaking
- Thoughts of self-harm or suicide
Even if you suspect it’s “just anxiety,” panic attacks can escalate into real medical crises. It’s always better to err on the side of caution, especially if it’s the teen’s first experience with intense symptoms. Don’t hesitate to seek help.
What Happens in the ER for a Panic Attack?
If your teen visits the ER during or after a panic attack, the medical team will first rule out any life-threatening conditions like heart problems, respiratory distress, or seizures. This may include:
- Vital sign monitoring
- EKG to check heart activity
- Blood tests
- Urine drug screening (especially if confusion is present)
- Mental health evaluation, if needed
Once physical causes are ruled out, providers may offer medication to ease anxiety or recommend follow-up with a mental health professional. If your teen has a known anxiety disorder, letting the staff know early can give proactive care and reduce unnecessary testing.
Just as important as treatment is the reassurance teens get from knowing their symptoms are real, and that they’re not alone.
How to Support Your Teen During a Panic Attack
If a panic attack happens at home, here are a few steps you can take to provide comfort:
- Stay calm and speak in a soothing voice
- Encourage deep breathing: in through the nose, out through the mouth
- Help them ground themselves by naming objects in the room or holding something cold
- Remind them the episode will pass, even if it feels scary
- Stay with them until symptoms ease or emergency care is available
Avoid saying things like “You’re fine” or “Calm down,” which can feel dismissive in the moment. Let them know what’s happening; reassure them and validate that it feels scary, and that it will pass. Consider potential distractions if breathing techniques aren’t helping.
When It’s More Than Just a One-Time Event
If panic attacks begin to happen regularly, or if your teen starts avoiding activities for fear of triggering one, professional help is essential. Signs your teen may need ongoing support include:
- Panic attacks occurring more than once a week
- Avoiding school or social situations
- Trouble sleeping or eating
- Irritability or emotional outbursts
- Feelings of hopelessness or self-harm
While one visit to the ER can help in a crisis, follow-up care with a therapist or psychiatrist is the best long-term strategy for managing panic and anxiety disorders.Consider professional evaluation to prevent an escalation into panic disorder or depression.
The Role of First Responders and ER Teams
Paramedics and emergency room staff are trained to respond to both physical and psychological health issues. They document the visit in a way that can support referrals, school accommodations, or follow up care that may be needed. When they encounter a teen having a panic attack, they prioritize:
- Ensuring safety and ruling out medical emergencies
- Calming the environment and reducing stimulation
- Providing validation and non-judgmental support
- Connecting families with next steps for mental health care
Knowing that your child is in good hands can be a huge relief during an overwhelming episode.
Your Teen’s Mental Health Is Worth Protecting
Panic attacks can be terrifying for teens and stressful for their families. Our team is trained to respond with compassion, urgency, and respect for your child’s emotional well-being. If your teen is struggling with frequent panic or anxiety, don’t wait. Sugar Land ER is open 24/7, and our team can help connect you with trusted resources for long-term support.
