When I was experiencing panic attacks I didn't actually know why. They could happen at any time, anywhere.
I was so bogged down trying to cope with the panics, I couldn't see beyond them. It was only after talking to a psychologist that he helped me to understand what was causing them.
In my case I was under a lot of pressure at home and at work, and I can remember this feeling of wanting to escape from the office, not wanting to be there. I just thought it was because I had a lot on my mind which was bringing me down to the extent of suicidal thoughts. I couldn't see a way out of the life I was leading and I felt trapped. It seems obvious to me now that it was because I felt trapped that I had my panics.
I suspect it's the same for most people that the first time they experience a panic is because of things going on around them affecting them.
The psychologist told me that if I didn't give up something to ease the pressure I'd break and he showed me options. I decided to go on sick leave and after a long period I recovered. I'm now able to work again.
This is only a thought but I wonder if peoples panics aren't actually caused by the situation they feel panicky in but in fact occur in these situations because of the feelings of being trapped due to other pressures around them such as a deep seated fear or because of their work or home situation. I'd be interested what others think on this.