Florida Probation Officer Practice Exam 2025 – 400 Free Practice Questions to Pass the Exam

A primary symptom of Panic Disorder is the occurrence of extreme panic attacks. Individuals with this disorder experience sudden and intense episodes of fear or discomfort, which can include symptoms such as rapid heartbeat, sweating, trembling, shortness of breath, or a feeling of impending doom. These panic attacks can be overwhelming and may occur unexpectedly or in response to specific triggers. The intensity and frequency of these attacks significantly impact a person's life, leading to avoidance behaviors to prevent future episodes.

The other options describe symptoms associated with different mental health conditions. Consistent feelings of sadness are more indicative of depressive disorders, while ritualistic handwashing is a characteristic behavior of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). Persistent hallucinations are often associated with psychotic disorders or severe mental health crises but are not typical of Panic Disorder. Thus, the defining characteristic of Panic Disorder revolves around the extreme nature of panic attacks that the individual experiences.