Panic Disorder DSM-5 Quiz

Panic Disorder Self-Check

Purpose: This self-check helps you learn how closely your experiences match core features of Panic Disorder in the DSM-5-TR. It is not a diagnosis.

Time-frame: Answer based on how often each statement was true for you during the past 4 weeks.

Response scale (0–3):

ScoreLabelExplanation
0NeverNot once in the past 4 weeks
1RarelyLess than once a week
2Often1–3 times a week
3Almost every day4 or more times a week

Crisis disclaimer: If you ever feel unsafe with your thoughts, call 988 (US), 911, or your local emergency number.

Sudden “out-of-the-blue” panic (2 items)

1. Out of nowhere I felt a sudden rush of intense fear.

2. These rushes happened when I wasn’t in real danger.

Body alarms during an attack (6 items)

3. My heart pounded or skipped beats during a rush of fear.

4. I broke out in a sweat when panic hit.

5. My hands or body shook.

6. I had trouble catching my breath or felt I was choking.

7. I felt chest tightness or pain.

8. I got dizzy, light-headed, or felt faint.

Scary thoughts during an attack (3 items)

9. During panic I felt detached from myself or the world.

10. I feared I might “go crazy” or lose control.

11. I thought I might die right then.

Worry about more attacks (2 items)

12. I kept worrying I would have another panic attack.

13. I worried about what the attacks could do to me.

Life changes to avoid panic (2 items)

14. I skipped activities, places, or exercise because I feared panic.

15. I changed daily routines (e.g., always sit near exits) to prevent an attack.

Educational only: This tool can’t diagnose any condition.

Privacy: Your answers stay on your device. No data are stored or transmitted.

Crisis resources: If you feel unsafe, call 988 (US) or your local emergency number, or text “HELLO” to 741-741.