Types of Anxiety Disorders

People suffering from anxiety disorders typically struggle to concentrate and are stressed. They also have higher risk of developing depression as well as certain medical conditions, such as thyroid issues.

It is normal to feel anxious from time to time for instance, prior to an exam or when moving into a new residence. But if it becomes constant and overwhelming, you may require treatment. The majority of anxiety disorders respond to psychotherapy (talk therapy) and medications.

generalized anxiety disorder cognitive behavioral therapy Anxiety Disorder

Everyone feels anxious at times, and this is usually an expected response to stress, whether physical or psychological. For instance, when you see a car speeding toward you your natural anxiety or fear response helps to ensure your safety by activating the "fight or flight" response. Your heart beats faster, blood flows to your muscles and you breathe harder; and your body becomes nervous in the event you have to escape danger or fight against an attack. Certain people, however, suffer from excessive worry that is difficult to control. This kind of worry can be harmful when it prevents you from completing your routine and affects relationships at work, school or. People suffering from this disorder have what is called generalized anxiety disorder (GAD).

GAD can be a problem for anyone of any age, but it is most prevalent in adolescents and children. It can last into adulthood. It is more prevalent in women than men. People suffering from GAD frequently suffer from other psychiatric disorders, especially dysthymia or depression (less severe forms of depression). They also are more likely to misuse drugs and alcohol.

Treatment for anxiety disorders usually involves medication and psychotherapy. Talk therapy, also known as psychotherapy can assist you in learning to manage your symptoms. It is beneficial to find a therapist that specializes in treating anxiety disorders. Cognitive behavioral therapy is the most effective for GAD. It helps you challenge distorted thinking and to use relaxation techniques.

Medications to treat anxiety are usually employed as short-term remedies for anxiety. Effexor duloxetine (Cymbalta) and escitalopram are all effective antidepressants. Before starting treatment, talk about the medications with your physician.

Social anxiety disorder, previously known as social fear creates extreme anxiety and discomfort when in social situations. You might feel as if you can't speak in front of others, or that people are judging your behavior or looking down at you. Some people with this condition are so anxious that they avoid all social interactions. Some people with this disorder experience selective mutism, which is when they are only terrified of certain situations, like eating or speaking in the presence of strangers.

Obsessive Compulsive disorder

Obsessions are unwanted and uncontrollable thoughts, images or urges that keep popping up in your mind, causing anxiety or even distress. Compulsions may be behaviors such as washing or counting. They can also be actions that you are compelled to do to alleviate anxiety or distress caused by an obsession. People with OCD often have both obsessions and compulsions which can occupy the majority of their time and disrupt the daily routine such as relationships, work and family.

Obsessive compulsive disorder affects men, women, and children of any age. It can begin in childhood, but symptoms are most likely to appear during puberty or early adulthood. The exact cause of OCD is unclear, but certain brain activity is thought to be abnormal. It could be due to an imbalance in the chemical serotonin that regulates your mood. There's also a significant genetic component. If you have a family member or more who have OCD There's 25% chance that you'll be affected.

OCD sufferers often feel incapable of stopping their obsessions and compulsions. They are aware that they are wrong and don't like their compulsions but are forced to act to avoid negative events happening or to escape the anxiety that obsessive thought creates.

There are a variety of treatments that can help. The majority of people can benefit from psychological treatment such as cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) or exposure and response prevention therapy. ERP involves an therapist gradually exposing you to the objects and situations that trigger your obsessional thoughts such as touching objects that are dirty. They also assist you to avoid the compulsive behavior (such as hand-washing) so that anxiety levels decrease with time.

SSRIs are often prescribed to people with OCD. These are drugs that boost serotonin levels in the brain. Other forms of psychological therapy include mindfulness-based and behavioural treatments, such as acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) and meditation. ACT helps you to accept your obsessive and negative thoughts and reduces their influence over you. Meditation and relaxation techniques are also beneficial in managing stress.

Panic Disorder

Panic disorder (PD), also known as panic attacks or anxiety is characterized by frequent episodes that reach their peak in a matter of minutes. The symptoms include trembling nausea and sweating as well as chest pains and breathlessness. These episodes can happen as a result of traumatic events or happen spontaneously. People with PD are also constantly concerned about the possibility of panic attacks occurring in the future and avoid situations that they fear could trigger a panic attack.

Like other anxiety disorders, PD can cause significant anxiety and affect everyday life. It affects men and women equally however it is more common for people who have had trauma or a stressful experience. People with a history of family or depression or anxiety are more susceptible to it.

About 1 out of four people who require treatment receive it, despite the fact that there are highly effective treatments available. The lack of understanding about anxiety disorders, the lack of access to mental healthcare services, and the stigma that surrounds seeking help are all barriers to care.

The symptoms of anxiety disorders can be similar to the symptoms of other illnesses such as heart disease or hyperthyroidism. This is why it is crucial to visit the doctor for an assessment and a diagnosis. A qualified mental health professional will recommend specific treatment after ruling out physical causes.

Although the causes of anxiety disorders aren't yet fully recognized, it is well-known that environmental and genetic factors play a part. Anxiety disorders are often passed down through families and typically develop at a younger age in those with an anxiety history. Moreover, there are many factors that could trigger anxiety disorders, such as abuse in childhood and smoking. Certain medications can cause anxiety, especially benzodiazepines such as diazepam or Valium. Antidepressants such as SSRIs or tricyclic antidepressants can reduce anxiety, as can beta-blockers prescribed to treat heart problems. You can control your symptoms by learning about anxiety disorders, and you can ease the anxiety in your everyday life by learning about treatment.

Social Anxiety Disorder

People with social anxiety disorder are constantly afraid of being in public or around other people. They believe that they will be judged negatively and be smacked of or rejected. They often develop a range of physical and emotional signs like a fast heartbeat sweating, trembling, nausea, and difficulty speaking. Their fear and avoidance of social situations could cause issues at work or in relationships. The disorder could cause other mental disorders, including depression or substance abuse.

Psychotherapy, such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is a key treatment for this condition. This helps to teach alternative ways of thinking and reduces anxiety. It helps the person realize that their fears are not in proportion to the actual danger and that they are in control over how they react and act. Another effective approach is exposure therapy, or cognitive delivered exposure, which involves gradually exposing the person to situations that cause anxiety, with the assistance of an experienced therapist in a secure environment.

Social anxiety disorder may be treated using medications but they aren't considered to be a cure. They include antianxiety medication such as antidepressants, beta-blockers and antidepressants. They are typically employed in conjunction with psychotherapy.

Researchers are trying to determine the risk factors and determine what causes this condition. Certain genes and environmental factors are known to contribute. Some studies have also shown that people with this disorder react more than normal to certain hormones.

It is important to seek treatment for anxiety disorders, as they can have a serious impact on people's lives. A general doctor or mental health professional can identify the condition and suggest treatments. It isn't easy to seek help, so it may be beneficial to involve your family member or friend in scheduling an appointment, or to attend with a support group or peer.

Some types of anxiety disorders can have a very negative impact on your life and can increase the risk of depression, substance use or eating disorders, as well as suicide. If you or someone you know is experiencing thoughts of suicide, contact a suicide prevention hotline for assistance.