Yes, OCD is categorized as an anxiety disorder. And yes, stress is often a "trigger" for panic attacks.

The thing to remember is that panic attacks are a symptom, much like a sneeze is a symptom. A sneeze could just be, well, a sneeze, or it could be the first symptom of a cold or a flu or allergies.

Often a stressful event such as, the death of a loved one, marriage, divorce, bankruptcy or college graduation, to name just a few, can act as a trigger. Perhaps you experience a panic attack, or two, and that's it. However, if you are predisposed to an anxiety disorder, the stressful event can "trigger" the illness. Generally, the rule is if your panic attacks are disrupting your life, if you are making changes in your life based on your panic attacks, then you should seek professional help.

Hope this helps!

Jeanne