How can panic disorder be distinguished from generalized anxiety in terms of attack unpredictability?

• A. Panic attacks are abrupt, discrete episodes that can be unexpected; GAD features chronic, excessive worry without discrete attacks.
• B. Panic attacks are chronic worry; GAD has discrete attacks
• C. Panic attacks always occur in social settings
• D. Panic disorder has no physical symptoms

Answer: (A)

Unpredictability is the key distinction. Panic disorder involves abrupt, discrete panic attacks that can occur suddenly and without warning, often with rapid onset of intense fear and physical symptoms that peak within minutes. Generalized anxiety disorder features chronic, excessive worry across many areas that lasts for months, without discrete panic episodes. So, the hallmark is that panic attacks can be unexpected and episodic, whereas GAD lacks these sudden, discrete attacks and centers on persistent worry.