Final answer:
A panic disorder involves frequent, unexpected panic attacks, often occurring with agoraphobia, which is an overwhelming fear of being in situations where escape or help is not readily available.
Step-by-step explanation:
A panic disorder is a psychological disorder consisting of frequent and unexpected panic attacks. This psychological disorder is often paired with agoraphobia, an excessive fear of being in a situation in which one cannot escape or get help. Panic attacks are sudden, intense surges of fear, panic, or anxiety, which can be overwhelming and have physical as well as psychological symptoms. Agoraphobia is not only a fear of open spaces, but also a fear of being in situations where escape could be difficult or that help wouldn't be available if things go wrong.
It's crucial to differentiate between common anxiety, which everyone experiences from time to time due to stress, and anxiety disorders like panic disorder, which involve persistent and debilitating anxiety. Anxiety disorders also encompass a variety of other conditions, including obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and specific phobias. Treatment typically involves therapy, medication, or a combination of both.