Anxiety Disorders
Anxiety Disorders
Anxiety Disorders (/æŋˈzaɪ.ə.ti dɪsˈɔːrdər/) are a group of mental health disorders characterized by feelings of anxiety and fear. The term "Anxiety Disorders" is derived from the Latin word "anxietas" meaning "anxiety" or "anguish" and the Greek word "disorder" meaning "disorder".
Types of Anxiety Disorders
There are several types of Anxiety Disorders, including:
- Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) - characterized by chronic anxiety, exaggerated worry and tension, even when there is little or nothing to provoke it.
- Panic Disorder - characterized by unexpected and repeated episodes of intense fear.
- Social Anxiety Disorder (SAD) - characterized by overwhelming worry and self-consciousness about everyday social situations.
- Specific Phobias - characterized by an intense fear of a specific object or situation.
- Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) - characterized by recurrent, unwanted thoughts (obsessions) and/or repetitive behaviors (compulsions).
- Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) - can develop following a traumatic event that threatens your safety or makes you feel helpless.
Symptoms
Symptoms vary depending on the type of Anxiety Disorder, but general symptoms include:
- Feelings of panic, fear, and uneasiness
- Problems sleeping
- Cold or sweaty hands or feet
- Shortness of breath
- Heart palpitations
- Not being able to be still and calm
- Dry mouth
- Numbness or tingling in the hands or feet
Treatment
Treatment for Anxiety Disorders can involve psychotherapy, medication, or both. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is effective for many people, helping them to understand and change thought patterns that lead to anxiety and fearful behavior.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Anxiety Disorders
- Wikipedia's article - Anxiety Disorders
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