Why People Panic Over Small Things But Stay Calm in Crises

Mental health experts explain the psychology behind this common phenomenon.

Mar. 11, 2026 at 9:37am

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According to mental health experts, people tend to panic over minor issues due to anxiety and "what-if" thinking, but remain surprisingly calm and focused when facing real emergencies. This contrast is rooted in how the brain responds to perceived versus immediate threats.

Why it matters

Understanding this psychological pattern can help people manage their anxiety and worry more effectively, and not let minor issues spiral out of control. It also highlights the importance of developing strong problem-solving skills, which can be an asset in crisis situations.

The details

Anxiety disorders lead people to constantly worry about hypothetical "what-if" scenarios, which triggers a feedback loop of rumination and problem-solving that can cause panic. However, the same problem-solving skills that intensify anxiety in everyday situations also allow these individuals to remain level-headed during real crises, as they can focus on addressing the actual event rather than imagining new potential problems.

  • The article was published on March 11, 2026.

The players

Dustin Siegel

A licensed clinical psychologist who works for LEAP Center for Anxiety in Chicago, Illinois.

Dr. Mona Nour

A licensed mental health therapist and researcher who owns teletherapy counseling services Nour Counseling & Consulting, PLLC.

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What they’re saying

“Anxiety centers around doubt and uncertainty. People with anxiety disorders tend to go through life worrying about the 'hypothetical what‑ifs,' and this worry often means trying to plan for and solve them.”

— Dustin Siegel, Licensed Clinical Psychologist (Newsweek)

“The human brain does not like to be confused. Some people have a higher tolerance for ambiguity than others. People with very low distress tolerance tend to worry and panic when they are facing situations that do not offer clarity—in other words, when they feel unsure about an outcome.”

— Dr. Mona Nour, Licensed Mental Health Therapist and Researcher (Newsweek)

What’s next

Experts suggest techniques like breathwork and reframing anxious thoughts can help people stop worries from spiraling out of control.

The takeaway

This psychological pattern highlights the importance of developing strong problem-solving skills, which can be an asset in crisis situations. Understanding the root causes of anxiety and worry can also help people manage these issues more effectively in their daily lives.