Anxiety

Anxiety-Disorders

Anxiety is a natural response to stress, helping us stay alert and prepared in challenging situations. However, when anxiety becomes excessive, persistent, or disproportionate to the situation, it may signal an anxiety disorder. These conditions can interfere with daily life but are treatable with the right support and care.

What is Anxiety?

Anxiety is a feeling of fear, worry, or unease about a real or perceived threat. While occasional anxiety is normal, an anxiety disorder causes intense, uncontrollable feelings of distress that can last for weeks or months.

Symptoms of Anxiety

Anxiety affects the mind and body, presenting with a mix of emotional, physical, and behavioral symptoms:

  • Emotional Symptoms:

    • Persistent worry or fear, often about everyday situations
    • Feeling restless, tense, or on edge
    • Difficulty concentrating or a sense of impending doom
  • Physical Symptoms:

    • Rapid heartbeat or chest pain
    • Sweating, trembling, or shaking
    • Shortness of breath or choking sensations
    • Nausea, dizziness, or stomach discomfort
  • Behavioral Symptoms:

    • Avoiding situations or places that trigger anxiety
    • Difficulty managing daily responsibilities

Common Types of Anxiety Disorders

  • Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD): Excessive worry about various aspects of life, such as work, health, or relationships.
  • Panic Disorder: Sudden episodes of intense fear accompanied by physical symptoms like palpitations or breathlessness (panic attacks).
  • Social Anxiety Disorder: Fear of social situations or being judged by others.
  • Phobias: Intense fear of specific objects, situations, or activities (e.g., heights, spiders, or flying).
  • Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD): Recurring, intrusive thoughts (obsessions) and repetitive behaviors (compulsions).
  • Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD): Anxiety triggered by a traumatic event.