How long must panic disorder be present to make a diagnosis?

To diagnose panic disorder, the symptoms must be persistent and not just acute. The criteria outlined in the DSM-5 specify that for a diagnosis of panic disorder, recurrent unexpected panic attacks must be present, and at least one of these attacks must be followed by a month or more of persistent concern or worry about having additional attacks or changes in behavior related to the attacks. This requirement emphasizes that the individual experiences significant distress and impairment over a continuous period. Thus, the correct duration for which symptoms must be present to support a diagnosis of panic disorder is at least one month. This timeframe allows for the evaluation of how the panic attacks alter the individual's daily life and mental health beyond just a fleeting episode.