Write a short note on differentiate between generalised anxiety disorder and panic disorder.

Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) and Panic Disorder are two distinct anxiety disorders characterized by different patterns of symptoms and presentations.

Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD):
GAD is characterized by persistent and excessive worry or anxiety about a variety of everyday concerns, events, or activities. Individuals with GAD often experience uncontrollable and intrusive thoughts related to potential negative outcomes, even when there is no apparent reason for concern. Key features of GAD include:

1. Chronic Worry: Individuals with GAD experience excessive worry and apprehension about a wide range of topics, such as work, finances, health, relationships, and daily responsibilities.
2. Physical Symptoms: GAD may be accompanied by physical symptoms, such as muscle tension, fatigue, restlessness, irritability, difficulty concentrating, sleep disturbances, and gastrointestinal discomfort.
3. Duration of Symptoms: GAD symptoms persist for at least six months or longer and are not limited to specific situations or triggers.
4. Functional Impairment: The excessive worry and physical symptoms associated with GAD can significantly impair daily functioning, work productivity, and interpersonal relationships.

Panic Disorder:
Panic Disorder is characterized by recurrent and unexpected panic attacks, which are sudden episodes of intense fear or discomfort that peak within minutes. Panic attacks are often accompanied by physical and cognitive symptoms, such as palpitations, sweating, trembling, shortness of breath, chest pain, dizziness, derealization, and fear of losing control or dying. Key features of Panic Disorder include:

1. Panic Attacks: Panic Disorder is defined by the presence of recurrent panic attacks, which occur unexpectedly and without obvious triggers.
2. Anticipatory Anxiety: Individuals with Panic Disorder may develop anticipatory anxiety or fear of experiencing future panic attacks, leading to avoidance behaviors and changes in lifestyle.
3. Agoraphobia: Some individuals with Panic Disorder may develop agoraphobia, which involves avoiding situations or places where escape or help may be difficult in the event of a panic attack.
4. Duration of Symptoms: Panic Disorder is characterized by persistent concern about future panic attacks and the consequences of panic attacks, lasting for at least one month or more.

In summary, while both GAD and Panic Disorder involve excessive anxiety, worry, and physical symptoms, they differ in terms of the nature of anxiety (generalized vs. panic attacks), duration of symptoms, and associated features such as anticipatory anxiety and agoraphobia. Treatment approaches may vary based on the specific features and severity of each disorder.