Panic attacks are intensely frightening events. They can hit you at any moment, and when they do they can completely ruin your day. Many people find that the only time they get a break from either panic attacks or thinking about panic attacks is when they go to sleep.

But for some people, the fear doesn't stop there. While not as common, some people experience panic attacks while sleeping. This terrifying event will jolt you awake and may cause immense fear and distress. However, it’s important to remember that panic attacks are just a result of anxiety - they’re not dangerous, just scary!

The Worst Type of Panic Attack

All panic attack types are incredibly stressful and can make it much harder to go about your daily life. These attacks may cause physical and mental symptoms that are so distressing they can cause people to fear to leave their own home.

But arguably nighttime panic attacks are the worst type of panic attacks because they cause significant distress that not even daytime panic attacks may cause:

• They often hit you by surprise with no warning.
• They may wake you up from sleep when your thoughts aren't entirely formed.
• They often prevent you from going back to sleep and cause sleep deprivation.
• They may create significant health fears.
• They may cause you to fear sleep in the future.

Furthermore, you might find that your nocturnal panic attacks are also disturbing your partner’s sleep. This can put a strain on your relationship.

What Causes Sleeping Panic Attacks?

Even though the panic attack is said to occur while you sleep, the idea that it's a "sleeping panic attack" may be a little misleading. It’s very difficult to sleep throughout the course of these panic attacks, and the actual attack usually wakes you up, causing significant fear and disorientation.

There are many possible causes of panic attacks, generally speaking. Often, panic attacks during the day are caused by an interaction between your bodily sensations and your thoughts. During the night, however, this might not necessarily be the trigger, given that you’re somewhat disconnected from your bodily and mental processes. There are, however, additional issues that may affect those who suffer from nocturnal panic attacks. These issues include: