Anxiety is defined as “a nervous disorder characterized by a state of excessive 
uneasiness and apprehension, typically with compulsive behavior and/or panic attacks.” The effects of anxiety disorders are so severe that they interfere with normal daily activities.
Subtypes. There are many different types of anxiety disorders. Examples include:
- Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) – people with GAD experience chronic excessive anxiety and worry in relation to several different stressors
- Panic disorder – those who suffer from panic disorder experience recurrent unexpected panic attacks
- Social anxiety disorder – people with social anxiety disorder fear social situations in which they may be embarrassed, judged, or rejected
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) – anxiety related to PTSD is triggered by a terrifying event. This event may have been a natural disaster, serious accident, terrorist attack, war, or violent personal attack.
- Obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD) – someone with OCD will experience unwanted and repeated thoughts or behaviors that make them feel driven to complete a specific task (compulsion)
Symptoms. Fatigue, restlessness, excessive sweating, hypervigilance, irritability, excessive worry or fear, feelings of impending doom, inability to concentrate, and increased heart rate are all possible symptoms of an anxiety disorder.
Diagnosis. Psychological testing is the primary means of diagnosing anxiety disorders.
Management. If experiencing symptoms of anxiety, exercise and relaxation techniques may be beneficial. Seeking professional help, such as with a clinical social worker or psychologist, should also help. Mental health professionals can teach you skills that will help you deal with stress, negative thoughts, and unhealthy emotional responses related to those thoughts. These skills may include relaxation techniques (meditation, yoga, and self-hypnosis), muscle relaxation, and deep-breathing exercises. Avoiding stimulating substances such as caffeine and certain illicit drugs is also important.
Medications. If still struggling with anxiety despite putting these skills into practice, your doctor may suggest trying a medication to help. Available options include antidepressants, anxiolytics, sedatives, and beta-blockers.
Anxiety may be caused by a combination of factors including changes in the brain and environmental stress. There is no shame in having anxiety or any other mental illness. Having anxiety does not mean that you are “paranoid” or “crazy.” If experiencing any of the symptoms above, I encourage you to seek help so that you can manage your symptoms and be your best self.
