What Are Anxiety Disorders?

People with anxiety disorders experience anxiety and fears that aren't proportional to a specific situation or, in the case of generalized anxiety disorder, over a wide range of situations. They also struggle to manage these symptoms.

The symptoms of anxiety disorders typically begin in childhood. The reason for this is not known however, genetics and life events could play a part.

Symptoms

An anxiety disorder is diagnosed when you experience excessive anxiety or fear, that is difficult to manage. It can affect your everyday life. Anxiety disorders include generalized anxiety (GAD) as well as panic, obsessive compulsive disorder and specific phobias.

GAD is characterized as overwhelming and uncontrollable anxiety. They may experience difficulty concentrating and may be constantly worried about health, money or work. The signs and symptoms of anxiety disorder of panic disorder are short, intense bouts of anxiety or discomfort that are unavoidable and cause symptoms like chest pain heart palpitations, difficulty breathing or dizziness. People who have phobias experience a fear of certain things, situations or locations, such as spiders and public speaking, heights or enclosed spaces. People with OCD have repetitive, compulsive behaviors as a means to cope with their fears and reducing feelings of anxiety or tension. People with post-traumatic stress disorder have difficulty getting rid of disturbing and frightening memories, which lead to flashbacks and nightmares.

The causes of anxiety disorders aren't fully identified, but they may involve a combination of factors. Certain studies suggest that a person's genetics and their environment are both significant. Generalized mixed anxiety and depressive disorder disorder, like, tends to run through families. Traumatic or stressful childhood experiences can also increase the likelihood of developing anxiety disorders. People suffering from chronic medical conditions and those who abuse alcohol or drugs are also more likely to suffer from an anxiety disorder.

Most anxiety disorders respond well when treated. Therapy and medication can ease the symptoms of anxiety disorder. Cognitive behavioral therapy is a type of psychotherapy that teaches people how to think and act in a way that helps them feel less anxious. Beta-blockers and medications for anxiety used to treat high blood pressure can help alleviate physical symptoms, such as shakes or rapid heartbeats. A healthcare provider can determine the right medications and dosages for each person. Early treatment can make the treatment of anxiety disorders list disorders less difficult.

Diagnosis

Most people feel anxious at times, for instance, prior to giving an address or taking a test. When those feelings are persistent and excessive, irrational and affect your daily routine, it may be an indication that you have an anxiety disorder.

A mental health professional will identify anxiety disorders based on the criteria of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders. They will ask about your symptoms, the time they started, how long they have lasted, whether they are getting worse, and how much they affect your daily life. They will also check for other conditions which could cause similar symptoms such as thyroid or depression.

Different types of anxiety disorders have different symptoms. Your doctor will identify the type of anxiety disorder that is creating problems for you and develop an action plan to treat it. This could include medication, psychotherapy, or both.

Certain people are more susceptible to developing anxiety disorders than others. Some people are at greater likelihood of developing an disorder than others. This includes those with a family history or children who have been through or witnessed traumatic events, as well as those with particular medical conditions, such as Rheumatoid Arthritis, systemic Lupus, or sleep apnea. It is also more frequent for phobic anxiety disorder to be associated with other mental or physical illnesses such as depression or heart disease.

People with anxiety disorders often have difficulty admitting that they are suffering from anxiety or seeking treatment. This is often due to stigmatization, lack of awareness that anxiety disorders can be treated disease, or lack of access to care.

Anxiety disorders are difficult to treat, but with right support most people will be able to recover. Talk with your therapist or doctor about what helps you cope and adhere to your treatment plan. Take your medication as prescribed, and take part in all therapy sessions. Avoid alcohol and nicotine as they can exacerbate anxiety symptoms. Open up to your family and friends, and join a group of people who have the same condition. This can help you to cope and share tips. Include your loved family members in the process and break the cycle by spending more time engaged in things you enjoy, such as sports or hobbies.

Treatment

Psychotherapy, medication and complementary techniques can be used to treat a variety of kinds of anxiety disorders. Antidepressants as well as other benzodiazepines are used to treat anxiety. Some people may need to test a variety of medications before finding one that works for them. Caffeine, certain over-the-counter and prescription drugs, illegal substances and herbal supplements could cause anxiety or trigger reactions with prescribed medications. People should always discuss any changes in their drug use with a physician.

Treatment for anxiety disorders often involves the use of therapy in conjunction with medications. Therapy can help you cope with your symptoms and change your negative beliefs and thoughts that cause anxiety. Therapy can also help you use techniques to relax and reduce stress like deep muscle relaxation, meditation and breathing exercises.

Therapy for anxiety includes cognitive behavioral therapy, which helps you learn new ways of thinking and behavior to reduce anxiety. Exposure therapy is another option that lets you gradually confront the things that trigger anxiety. It can also include other approaches to health that are complementary like acupuncture and mindfulness.

If you suffer from extreme anxiety, your doctor might prescribe a short course of fast-acting benzodiazepines to ease your symptoms. If you're experiencing suicidal thoughts or feelings, you should be examined in the emergency department.

Medications can help relieve the symptoms of anxiety Disorders anxiety, however they are not the cure. They are not able to solve the root cause and must be taken regularly. Some of the most effective treatments for anxiety disorders mix pharmacotherapy with psychotherapy, such as cognitive behavioral therapy or exposure therapy.

You can prevent some symptoms of anxiety by regularly exercise, avoiding unhealthy food and drinking alcohol in moderation. Smoking and getting enough sleep can also help. Social connections are essential to avoid loneliness and anxiety symptoms. You can find a Therapist in your area by searching the ADAA's Find-a-Therapist database. You can also visit BetterHelp, an online therapy service that connects you with a licensed therapist for as low as $49 per session.

The following is a list with preventions.

Humans are programmed to feel anxiety and fear when certain situations arise. It is our body's way to prepare us to fight or flee from a threat. But, if these feelings persist and begin to affect our daily lives, it is considered an anxiety disorder. Anxiety symptoms can be triggered by a myriad of causes, including stress, genetics, stress trauma, and even the use of drugs.

Treatment is available to many patients suffering from anxiety disorders. The first step is to speak with your primary care physician about your symptoms. Your doctor will assess your condition and, if necessary, refer you to a mental healthcare professional.

Some of the most effective treatments for anxiety disorders is psychotherapy and medication. Talk therapy can teach you how to control your emotions and change negative thoughts patterns that fuel anxiety. The use of medications can reduce your symptoms and make it easier to focus on healthy behaviors. Antidepressants are among the medications used to treat anxiety. Beta blockers and benzodiazepines are a couple of examples.

Relaxation techniques such as meditation and deep breathing can help reduce anxiety. Avoiding substances that can alter your mood, like caffeine, can also help. Additionally, regular exercise can reduce stress levels. Try to make more friends or discover a new pastime if you're having difficulty coping with anxiety.

It is important to recognize that anxiety disorders typically start in the adolescent years or early childhood, and they tend to run in families. People who have been through a difficult period in their lives like childhood abuse or severe loss, may be at greater chance of developing an anxiety disorder.

The USPSTF recommends that adults including postpartum and pregnant women, be checked for anxiety disorders. The risk of developing an anxiety disorder should be assessed on a case-by -case basis, considering their individual risks and advantages. In the absence of any evidence on optimal screening frequency doctors are advised to use their clinical judgment while assessing a person's risks, comorbidities and life events to determine whether further screening is necessary.