Examination of ataque de nervios and ataque de nervios like events in a diverse sample of adults with anxiety disorders.

BACKGROUND

Ataque de nervios (ataque) represents a cultural syndrome of paroxysmic symptoms that is described as an expression of distress among Latinx (gender-inclusive term for people of Latin-American descent). Some ataques are symptomatically similar to DSM-5-defined panic attacks, but also may include acute anger, grief, suicidal/violent behavior, or dissociation, and can last for hours or even days. Ataques usually occur after stressors and can trigger the mobilization of social support networks. Although described as a cultural syndrome, two studies showed that ataque-like events can occur in non-Latinx individuals. However, neither of the previous studies examined these events in psychiatric samples and both were hindered by methodological shortcomings.

METHODS

The present study examined lifetime prevalence of ataques and ataque-like events in an ethnically/racially diverse sample of 245 adults with anxiety disorders to better understand acute reactions to stressors across cultures.

RESULTS

Controlling for previously established correlates of ataque, results showed that Latinx were significantly more likely to report ever having an ataque (B = 1.41; P = 0.001; OR = 4.10 [95% CI: 1.72-9.80]), but events were reported by some non-Latinx African Americans and Whites. Anxiety sensitivity was also a significant predictor. Across the three groups, minor differences were found in symptoms, severity, or precipitants of attacks.

CONCLUSIONS

Findings suggest that Latinx are more likely to experience ataques but that stressors can trigger similar symptoms in non-Latinx. However, more research is needed to understand the meaning of these attacks within non-Latinx groups as the explanations, connotations, and help-seeking expectations regarding ataque are connected to Latinx cultures.