About Anxiety Disorders

The most common anxiety disorders include, Panic disorder, Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), Social anxiety disorder, phobias and generalized anxiety disorder. Symptoms vary, depending on the anxiety disorder. However, general symptoms include: Feelings of panic/fear/uneasiness; uncontrolled, obsessive thoughts; repeated thoughts or flashbacks of traumatic experiences; nightmares; ritualistic behaviors (repeated hand washing); sleep problems; cold/sweaty hands; shortness of breath; palpitations; an inability to be still and calm; dry mouth; numbness/tingling in the hands/feet and nausea and muscular tension

The exact cause of anxiety disorders is unknown. Like other forms of mental illness, many of these disorders are caused by a combination of factors, including changes in the brain, environmental stresses, genetics or by chemical imbalances in the body. Severe or long-lasting stress can change the balance of chemicals in the brain that control mood. Certain environmental factors, like trauma or a significant event can trigger an anxiety disorder if people are susceptible.

 

Anxiety Treatment

The exact treatment approach depends on the type of disorder, one or a combination of the following therapies may be used for most anxiety disorders:

1.  Medication: Medicines used to reduce the symptoms of anxiety disorders include anti-depressants and anxiety-reducing medications.
2.  Psychotherapy: A process in which trained mental health professionals help people by talking through strategies for understanding and dealing with the disorder.
3.  Cognitive-behavioral therapy: People suffering from anxiety disorders often participate in this type of psychotherapy in which the person learns to recognize and change thought patterns and behaviors that lead to troublesome feelings.

Anxiety treatment notes:
1.  Stop or reduce consumption of products that contain caffeine (coffee, tea, cola and chocolate).
2.  Be aware of over-the-counter medicine or herbal remedies that may contain chemicals that can increase anxiety symptoms.
3.  Seek counseling as soon as possible after a traumatic or disturbing experience.