What is an anxiety disorder?
Anxiety disorder, also called anxiety, is a mental health disorder characterized by excessive and uncontrollable anxiety and worry. People with anxiety disorders often experience an intense feeling of fear and anxiety that can affect their daily life and ability to function. There are several different types of anxiety disorders, and they include:
- Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD): This is characterized by persistent and excessive worry about various aspects of life, such as health, work, family, and finances. People with GAD have difficulty controlling their worries and may experience physical symptoms such as muscle tension, restlessness and sleep problems.
- Panic disorder: People with panic disorder experience repeated, unexpected panic attacks, which are intense periods of intense fear and physical symptoms such as heart palpitations, sweating and difficulty breathing. Panic attacks can lead to persistent fear of future attacks and limit a person’s daily activities.
- Social anxiety disorder: This involves an intense fear of being judged or humiliated in social situations. People with social anxiety disorder often avoid situations where they have to perform in public or interact with others.
- Specific phobia: This is characterized by an extreme fear of a specific object, animal or situation, for example planes, heights or snakes. People with specific phobias often avoid what they are afraid of.
- Agoraphobia: This is the fear of being in places or situations where escape may be difficult, and where the person may feel helpless. Agoraphobia can lead to avoidance of leaving the home or participating in social activities.
Treatment of anxiety disorder.
Treatment for anxiety disorders may include therapy, medication, or a combination of both. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is often used to help people with anxiety disorders change negative thought patterns and cope with anxiety-provoking situations. Medications such as antidepressants or anti-anxiety medications can also be helpful in some cases.
It is important to seek professional help if you suspect you are suffering from an anxiety disorder, as effective treatment is available and early intervention can help improve quality of life and reduce symptoms.
