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Anxiety Disorders: One Size Does Not Fit All

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Most people have some understanding of what anxiety is, but there is a lot of misinformation and mystery surrounding this mental illness. There are multiple different types of anxiety, so it is certainly not a 'one size fits all' disorder. If you experience symptoms of anxiety like hypervigilance, worry, or restlessness, you may want to know more about this mental illness. This post discusses different types of anxiety disorders and how you can begin treating your symptoms.

The Three Primary Types Of Anxiety

Anxiety disorders are far from uncommon; they affect 18 percent of adults in the country. This equates to about 40 million people throughout the United States. There are three very prominent types of anxiety disorders, and they are described below.

  • General Anxiety Disorder - General anxiety disorder occurs when someone experiences constant and persistent anxiety and anxiety symptoms. For example, people with general anxiety disorder may consistently worry about money, employment, personal relationships, and so on.

  • Panic Disorder – Panic disorder occurs when someone experiences what is known as a panic attack. A panic attack is a sudden surge of anxiety and anxiety symptoms that occurs for seemingly no reason. This also causes individuals to experience anxiety about experiencing future panic attacks.

  • Social Anxiety Disorder – Social anxiety occurs when someone has anxiety or panic attacks in social situations. People with this disorder often have trouble interacting with others. This can cause issues with maintaining employment, relationships, and friendships.

Anxiety And Other Mental Illnesses

It is extremely common for anxiety to be a co-morbid mental illness; that means that it occurs alongside other mental illnesses. It can also be a symptom of other illnesses. Anxiety is commonly associated with the following:

  • depression

  • obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)

  • post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)

  • personality disorders

  • attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)

If you are diagnosed with one of these illnesses, there is a chance that you may also have an anxiety disorder. However, only a qualified medical professional can give you a formal diagnosis.

Treatment For Anxiety Disorders

Anxiety can be frustrating, confusing, and downright debilitating. Despite this, there are multiple types of treatment for each anxiety disorder. Visiting a psychiatrist like those found at Comprehensive Behavioral Health Associates Inc is the first step in getting proper treatment for your anxiety. A psychiatrist can perform a professional evaluation and help you figure out what additional steps to take for your specific disorder.


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