What is anxiety disorder?
Feeling anxious is a normal reaction to stress or perceived danger; it warns you to pay attention and be prepared. However, when your brain is telling you to feel anxious all the time, it can cause problems for you at work, school, or social situations. The intense fears can trigger impulsive or avoidance behaviors and the physical symptoms — shaking, sweating, and heart palpitations — are often distressing.
Anxiety disorders are extremely common. According to the American Psychiatric Association, nearly 30% of adults will experience it at some point during their lives. There are several different types of anxiety disorder. Some of the more common disorders include:
- Generalized anxiety disorder: Generalized anxiety disorder causes persistent, excessive fear accompanied by symptoms like restlessness, concentration issues, muscle tension, and disrupted sleep. Your worries are often based on normal everyday concerns like your job, family, or appointments.
- Panic disorder: Panic disorder is characterized by panic attacks, which are periods of intense anxiety accompanied by physical symptoms such as palpitations, sweating, shaking, feeling short of breath, nausea, and more. Panic attacks may be triggered by a specific concern or they may emerge from nowhere.
- Social anxiety disorder: Social phobias stem from insecurities and fears about social interactions ranging from public speaking to meeting new people and attending parties. Your social anxiety may be rooted in fears of rejection or humiliation.
What causes anxiety?
No one knows the exact cause of anxiety, but there are hereditary links. A number of risk factors increase your risk of developing anxiety, including:
- Trauma
- Other mental health disorders
- Personality type
- Drug or alcohol use
How are anxiety disorders treated?
The psychiatrists and nurse practitioners at South Texas Mental Health Associates offer highly customized, patient-focused care to help you address your anxiety disorder. After a comprehensive assessment, you’ll work with your clinician, usually combining medication and therapy to uncover and address the issues at the root of your anxiety.
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is a frequently used form of psychotherapy for anxiety disorders. It teaches you to recognize your thoughts and feelings and then learn to adjust your behavioral responses.
If you’re concerned about anxiety or feel like your fears and worries are getting in the way of your life, call or schedule a consultation online today.
