What are episodes of intense dread that last for several minutes most characteristic of?

Episodes of intense dread that last for several minutes are most characteristic of panic attacks. Panic attacks are sudden periods of intense fear or discomfort that peak within minutes, often accompanied by physical symptoms such as a racing heart, shortness of breath, sweating, trembling, and feelings of impending doom. Individuals experiencing a panic attack may feel as if they are losing control or having a heart attack, which contributes to the intense dread they experience.

In contrast, anxiety attacks are typically less intense and more prolonged episodes of anxiety rather than discrete episodes of fear that peak quickly. Stress reactions can encompass a broader range of responses to stressors and do not necessarily involve the intense and acute symptoms associated with panic attacks. Phobic responses are related to specific phobias and involve fear triggered by particular objects or situations, rather than the sudden onset of dread experienced during a panic attack. Thus, the hallmark of panic attacks is the abrupt intensity and duration of fear that is characteristic of the experience.