Understanding Various Types of Anxiety Disorder

Anxiety disorders affect between 10 and 15 percent of the U.S. population, making it one of the country’s most common mental health problems. People with anxiety North Chelmsford disorders often constantly feel on edge or have irrational fears that cause them to act out in various ways, such as avoiding situations or people they normally would enjoy. Anxiety disorders can be very serious and even life-threatening if untreated, but with proper treatment and support, they can be managed effectively.

Here are different types of anxiety disorders

Panic disorder

Panic disorder is a type of anxiety disorder characterized by recurrent panic attacks. Panic attacks characterize sudden intense fear or apprehension, often followed by symptoms such as heart palpitations, dizziness, chest pain, and shortness of breath.

In panic disorder, these physical symptoms are accompanied by several other symptoms that vary from person to person. For example, some people may experience a racing heart or feel like they have a heart attack; others may feel as if they are going to vomit or become light-headed.

Obsessive-compulsive disorder

Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is an anxiety disorder characterized by intrusive and repetitive thoughts (obsessions) that lead to a variety of behavioral or physical acts (compulsions). The individual may experience severe distress and impairment in social, occupational, or other important areas of functioning.

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a type of anxiety disorder that is caused when a person experiences or witnesses an event that involves the threat of death or serious injury. It can be triggered by events such as war, natural disasters, accidents, and violent crimes.

The symptoms of PTSD can occur for months or years after the stressful event and include flashbacks, nightmares, and intrusive memories. The symptoms of PTSD can vary from person to person, but most PTSD victims may also feel irritable, angry, restless, or unable to concentrate. The severity of the symptoms will depend on how much time has passed since the traumatic event and on other factors such as age and gender.

Social anxiety disorder (SAD)

Social anxiety disorder (SAD) is characterized by an intense fear of social situations, such as public speaking, eating in front of others, or interacting with new people. Individuals with a social anxiety disorder may avoid these situations to the point that they feel they have lost control.

Social anxiety disorder affects one in five people at some time in their lives. It is more common among women than men and often goes unrecognized because the symptoms are milder than those associated with other types of anxiety disorders. However, SAD can be challenging to treat because it can take years for symptoms to develop.

There are several different types of treatments for anxiety disorders. The best treatment for anxiety disorder is the one that works for you. The best way to find out about your treatment options is to talk with an expert from Greater Lowell Psychiatric Associates, LLC. They can help you decide what might be right for you.