Everyone experiences anxiety during their lives. Anxiety is a human response to a stressful situation. Stress at work, school, or at home can create anxious feelings, but these feelings usually dissipate. If anxiety interferes with daily living, relationships or work, it is not healthy. Avoiding certain situations, such as driving because of fear that an accident can occur, is not healthy.
People with an anxiety disorder feel extreme worry, fear, apprehension or dread over every day things. A person has an anxiety disorder when persistent worry is experienced more often than not, for several months. According to the Anxiety and Depression Association of America, anxiety disorders affect more than 40 million adults, ages 18 and older, in the United States and nearly 1/2 of adults suffering from depression, suffer from an anxiety disorder. “An estimated 31.9% of children, ages 13 – 18, suffer from an anxiety disorder.” National Institute of Mental Health
Causes of anxiety can be related to a medical problem including heart disease, diabetes, thyroid problems, respiratory conditions, alcohol misuse, chronic pain, or drug, alcohol, and anti-anxiety medication withdrawal. Some medications may cause anxiety as a side effect. Heredity, environment, brain chemistry and personality are also contributing factors. Adults may be at risk for anxiety if they experienced childhood abuse or trauma.
Fortunately, there is effective treatment to control anxiety including medications and psychotherapy. Early diagnosis helps prevent anxiety from worsening, therefore educating oneself on symptoms, self-help methods, and professional treatment options will result in earlier detection and a more productive conversation with a doctor.
Types of Anxiety Disorder
The following list includes the most common types of anxiety disorders. For a more complete list and further information regarding all disorders, please refer to Anxiety.org.
Social Anxiety Disorder (Social Phobia) – excessive emotional discomfort, anxiety, worry, or fear about social situations.
Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) – persistent and excessive worry over everyday life.
Panic Disorder – sudden feelings of fear without the threat of actual danger.
Specific Phobias – intense fear of certain situations or objects.
“Lack of knowledge creates fear”
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