At its core, panic comes from the brain’s "threat detection" system going into overdrive—even when the threat isn't physical, but emotional or social.
Here’s a deeper look at where panic comes from:
1. The Amygdala Response (Fight, Flight, Freeze)
Panic starts in the amygdala, the part of the brain that detects danger. When it senses a threat—real or imagined—it sends signals that flood the body with stress hormones (like adrenaline and cortisol).
Even if the "threat" is just someone’s words (criticism, rejection), the brain can react as if you’re in danger.
2. Perceived Loss of Control
Panic often comes when you feel powerless—when something unpredictable, uncomfortable, or overwhelming happens (like sudden criticism), and you don't feel able to handle or stop it.
3. Fear of Negative Outcomes
The mind can quickly jump to worst-case scenarios:
“What if they hate me now?”
“What if I fail and lose everything?”
“What if I look stupid in front of others?”
This mental spiral creates a sense of panic.
4. Past Trauma or Emotional Memory
If your brain links the current situation to a past painful experience (like being shamed, bullied, or rejected), it may trigger panic automatically—even if you consciously know this moment is different.
5. Overactive Nervous System
Some people have naturally sensitive stress responses (possibly genetic or learned). Their body reacts more strongly or quickly to stress, leading to faster or more frequent panic.
In simple terms:
👉 Panic = A sudden flood of fear or anxiety when your brain thinks you're in danger—even if the "danger" is just social or emotional, not physically
1. Fear of Rejection or Disapproval
Humans are deeply wired to seek acceptance—from family, peers, society. Criticism feels like a threat to this acceptance, triggering anxiety or panic.
2. Ego and Self-Identity Threat
When criticized, especially about things we value (like intelligence, skill, or personality), it feels like our sense of self is being attacked. The mind reacts defensively, sometimes with panic, to protect this self-image.
3. Negative Past Experiences
If someone grew up in a highly critical or judgmental environment, criticism now may unconsciously remind them of those hurtful moments, making the reaction more intense.
4. Low Self-Esteem or Insecurity
People with fragile self-worth often view criticism as confirmation of their worst fears about themselves, which can cause panic or distress.
5. Perceived Imbalance of Power
When the critic holds more power (like a boss or parent), the stakes feel higher. Fear of consequences (losing a job, love, respect) can intensify the emotional reaction.
6. Lack of Emotional Regulation Skills
Some simply haven't learned how to process discomfort or defensiveness calmly. So the reaction feels overwhelming or automatic.
7. Social Conditioning
Many cultures overemphasize success and perfection, making failure or criticism feel catastrophic rather than a normal part of growth.
A helpful reframe:
Criticism, when constructive, can actually be an opportunity for learning or growth—but this perspective only comes with self-confidence, self-awareness, and practice in emotional resilience.