Anxiety disorders are the most common mental health condition in the United States. An anxiety disorder is when a person experiences excessive, irrational fear and dread.
Agoraphobia
Agoraphobia is an anxiety disorder characterized by a fear of places or situations where escape may be difficult or embarrassing, or help might not be available in the event of a panic attack or other medical emergency. Agoraphobics often avoid public transportation, crowded places such as shopping malls or movie theaters, and any place where they might feel trapped. The physical symptoms of agoraphobia can include heart palpitations, shortness of breath, sweating, and dizziness. Mental symptoms may include detachment from reality, fear of losing control, and intense anxiety. Behavioral symptoms may include avoiding activities that trigger anxiety, staying close to home, and relying on others for support. Agoraphobia can be treated with medication, therapy, and exposure therapy.
Generalized Anxiety Disorder
Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) is a mental health condition characterized by pervasive and excessive worry. The worry is often accompanied by physical symptoms such as headaches, muscle tension, fatigue, and difficulty concentrating. People with GAD may also experience irritability, restlessness, and sleep difficulties. While everyone feels anxious at times, the anxiety experienced by people with GAD is severe and persistent, and can interfere with their ability to function in everyday life. GAD typically develops in childhood or adolescence but can also occur later in life. Although there is no cure for GAD, it is treatable with therapies such as cognitive-behavioral therapy and medication. These treatments can help people with GAD manage their anxiety and improve their quality of life.
Panic Disorder
Panic disorder is an anxiety disorder characterized by recurrent, unexpected panic attacks. Panic attacks are sudden periods of intense fear or discomfort that peak within minutes. Physical symptoms often include chest pain, heart palpitations, shortness of breath, and dizziness. Mental and behavioral symptoms may include flashbacks of the event, increased anxiety, avoidance of places or situations that trigger memories of the event, and disrupted sleep. While there is no cure for panic disorder, it is treatable with medication and therapy. With proper treatment, most people with panic disorder can learn to manage their symptoms and live everyday, productive lives.
Separation Anxiety Disorder
Separation anxiety disorder is a condition characterized by an excessive fear of separation from loved ones. It is most common in young children, but can also occur in adults. Physical symptoms may include sweating, heart palpitations, and nausea. Mental symptoms may include obsessive thoughts about loved ones, constant worry about their safety, and difficulty concentrating. Behavioral symptoms may include clinginess, tantrums, and avoidance of situations that involve separation. While the exact cause of separation anxiety disorder is unknown, it is believed to be a combination of genetics and environment. Treatment typically involves a combination of cognitive behavioral therapy and medication. With treatment, most people with separation anxiety disorder are able to overcome their fears and live normal, productive lives.
Specific Phobias
A phobia is an intense fear of an object or situation that leads to avoidance. Phobias are irrational fears, which means that the anxiety they cause is out of proportion to the actual danger posed by the object or situation. Phobias can be extremely debilitating, but there are a number of ways to overcome them. One effective approach is gradual exposure, which involves slowly and repeatedly confronting the object or situation that triggers the phobia. This can help desensitize the individual to the trigger and reduce fear. Another approach is cognitive-behavioral therapy, which involves identifying and changing negative thinking patterns. With both of these approaches, it is important to work with a qualified professional who can tailor the treatment to the individual’s specific needs. With commitment and effort, it is possible to overcome a phobia and live a more peaceful life.
Postpartum Anxiety
Postpartum anxiety is a very real and unfortunately common condition that can occur after giving birth. It’s estimated that 1 in 7 women experience some form of postpartum anxiety, making it important to be aware of the signs and symptoms. While postpartum depression gets a lot of attention, anxiety often goes undiagnosed and untreated. This is because the symptoms can be harder to identify, as they vary from person to person. For some, physical symptoms like racing heartbeats, sweating, and dizziness are prominent. Others may experience mental symptoms such as intrusive thoughts, excessive worry, and difficulty concentrating. And still others may notice changes in their behavior, such as avoiding people or places, difficulty sleeping, or changes in eating habits.
Social Anxiety Disorder
Social anxiety disorder is an anxiety disorder characterized by intense fear or anxiety in social situations. Physical symptoms may include sweating, increased heart rate, and difficulty breathing. Mental symptoms may include racing thoughts, intrusive thoughts, and impaired concentration. Behavioral symptoms may include avoidance of social situations, dieting or excessive exercise, and alcohol or drug use. Social anxiety disorder can profoundly impact quality of life, making it difficult to work, go to school, or maintain relationships. Various effective treatments are available, including cognitive-behavioral therapy, medication, and exposure therapy.
