Which symptom is commonly associated with an anxiety attack?

Rapid heartbeat is commonly associated with an anxiety attack because it is a physiological response triggered by the body's fight-or-flight reaction to perceived threats or stress. During an anxiety attack, the body releases adrenaline, leading to several symptoms including an increased heart rate, which prepares the body to either confront or flee from a potential danger. This response can be quite intense, causing individuals to feel a racing heart or palpitations, which can further exacerbate feelings of anxiety and panic.

The other options reflect states that do not align with the typical experiences during an anxiety attack. Enhanced focus and clarity, for example, is typically not observed; instead, individuals may experience difficulty concentrating due to overwhelming anxiety. Similarly, improved sleep patterns run counter to the heightened state of arousal and anxiety that often disrupt sleep. Finally, increased social interaction is often avoided by those experiencing anxiety, as social situations can become sources of stress and fear during an attack.