Types Of Anxiety Disorders The Process Isn't As Hard As You Think

Types of Anxiety Disorders

People suffering from anxiety disorders typically struggle to concentrate and are stressed. They also are at higher risk of developing depression as well as certain health conditions like thyroid problems.

It's normal to be anxious occasionally for instance, prior to a test or when moving into a new residence. If anxiety becomes constant and overwhelming it is possible to require treatment. Psychotherapy (talk therapy) along with medication, are effective in treating the majority of anxiety disorders.

Generalized Anxiety Disorder

Everyone feels anxious at times and this is a normal part of responding to psychological or physical stress. If you see a car approaching you quickly your fear or anxiety response can help you stay safe. It triggers the "fight-or-flight" response which means that your heart rate will increase blood will flow to your muscles, you'll breath more deeply, and your body will get anxious to prepare for a possible fight or run. However certain people are plagued by excessive worrying that seems difficult to manage. This kind of worry could be dangerous if you are unable to carry out your normal activities, or if it interferes in your relationships, work or education. People with this problem suffer from what is known as generalized anxiety disorder (GAD).

GAD can affect people of any age but it is more common in children and adolescents. It can persist into adulthood. Women are more likely to be affected by GAD than men. GAD is often associated with other psychiatric conditions such as dysthymia or depression. They are also more likely to misuse drugs and alcohol.

Psychotherapy and medication are usually used to treat anxiety disorders. Psychotherapy or talk therapy can help you manage your symptoms. It is beneficial to find a therapist who specializes in treating anxiety disorders. Cognitive behavioral therapy is most effective for GAD. It helps you challenge mental distortions and also to employ relaxation techniques.

The medications used to treat anxiety are typically used as short-term treatments for anxiety. There are a variety of antidepressants that are effective, such as escitalopram (Lexapro), duloxetine (Cymbalta) and Venlafaxine (Effexor XR). Discuss with your doctor about these medications prior to beginning treatment.

Social anxiety disorder (formerly known as social phobia) is a cause of extreme anxiety and apprehension in social situations. It is possible that you're unable to speak to others or that they look at you from afar. Certain people suffering from this disorder are so nervous that they avoid social situations.  www.iampsychiatry.com  who suffer from this disorder experience selective mutism. This means that they only seem to be scared of certain situations, such as public speaking or eating in the presence of strangers.

Obsessive Compulsive disorder

Obsessions are uncontrollable, unwanted thoughts or images that keep coming back to your mind, causing anxiety or distress. Compulsions are behaviours, such as washing, counting or checking, that you feel driven to do to lessen the stress or anxiety caused by an obsession. Obsessions and compulsions are typical among those suffering from OCD. They can take up a lot of time and can disrupt relationships as well as work activities.

Obsessive compulsive disorder affects women, men, and children of any age. It can start in the earliest years of life, however, symptoms tend to manifest when you reach puberty or early adulthood. The exact cause of OCD is unclear however, some brain activity is thought to be abnormal. It could be due to an imbalance in the chemical serotonin, which determines your mood. There's also a strong genetic component; if you or your family members suffer from OCD, there's about a 25% chance you will experience it.

People suffering from OCD typically believe that their obsessions or compulsions are unreasonable and they are unable to stop them. They know that they're wrong and don't like their compulsions, but are forced to act to avoid bad things happening or to avoid the anxiety that obsessive thought generates.

While obsessions and compulsions are difficult to overcome, there are a variety of treatments available that can help. Psychological treatment, like cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) and exposure and response prevention therapy (ERP) can help improve OCD symptoms for the majority of people. In ERP therapy, the therapist gradually exposes you to the things or situations that trigger your thoughts, like touching objects that are dirty, and helps you to resist relying on your compulsive actions (for instance, washing your hands) to ensure that anxiety levels decrease over time.

SSRIs are also prescribed to some people suffering from OCD. These drugs increase serotonin in the brain. Other forms of psychological therapy include behavioural therapy and mindfulness-based therapies, such as acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) and meditation. ACT assists you in accepting your obsessive and negative thoughts and eliminates their power over you. Meditation and relaxation techniques can be useful in managing stress.

Panic Disorder

Panic disorder (PD), also known as anxiety or panic attacks is characterized by repeated episodes that peak in minutes. Symptoms include trembling, nausea and sweating as well as chest pains and breathlessness. These episodes may occur after frightening experiences, or they can occur in a sudden and unexpected manner. People with PD also have enduring distress over the possibility of panic attacks in the future. They avoid situations where they believe they might trigger an episode.

PD like other anxiety disorders, can cause significant distress and affect negatively the daily routine. It affects both genders equally however it is more prevalent in people who have experienced a traumatic or stressful event. People with a family history or depression or anxiety are more susceptible to it.

Although highly effective treatment exists but only one out of 4 people who require treatment receive it. The lack of understanding about anxiety disorders, the lack of access to mental healthcare services, and stigma surrounding seeking help are all obstacles to treatment.

Symptoms of an anxiety disorder often mimic symptoms of other diseases such as hyperthyroidism or heart disease. It is therefore important to see a doctor for an assessment and diagnosis. After determining if there is a physical cause, a qualified mental health professional can suggest specific treatment options.

Although the causes of anxiety disorders aren't fully understood, it is known that genetic and environmental factors play a part. Anxiety disorders are often passed down through families and are more likely to manifest at a younger stage for those with an anxiety history. Moreover, there are many risk factors that can lead to the development of anxiety disorders like childhood abuse and smoking. Certain medications, like benzodiazepines like diazepam and Valium are also known to cause anxiety. Antidepressants, such as SSRIs or tricyclic antidepressants can relieve anxiety, as can beta-blockers that are used to treat heart problems. You can control your symptoms by learning about anxiety disorders. You can lessen the stress in your daily life by learning about treatments.

Social Anxiety Disorder

Social anxiety disorder is defined by a persistent and heightened fear of being in the public eye or around other people. They believe that they will be judged negatively and may be smacked of or rejected. They might experience a range of physical and psychological signs like rapid heartbeats as well as sweating and trembling. Their fear of social situations could cause problems in the workplace or relationships. The disorder could cause other mental disorders, including depression or substance abuse.

This condition can be treated using psychotherapy, including cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). This teaches the person new ways of thinking and acting, which can lessen the anxiety. It helps the person understand that their fears aren't in proportion to the real threat and that they have control over the way they behave and react. Another approach that is effective is exposure therapy or cognitive delivered exposure. It involves gradually exposing the person to situations that cause anxiety with the help of a therapist in a safe environment.

They also use medications to treat social anxiety disorders however they aren't considered to be a cure. Antianxiety medications, antidepressants and beta-blockers are all included. They are typically employed in conjunction with psychotherapy.

Researchers are trying to determine the risk factors and understand what causes this condition. It is well-known that certain genes and environmental factors could be responsible for. A few studies have also revealed that those with this disorder react more than normal to certain hormones.

It is crucial to seek treatment for anxiety disorders as they can have a significant impact on the lives of people. A general doctor or mental health professional can diagnose the condition and suggest treatments. It can be difficult to ask for assistance, so it might be helpful to involve a friend or family member in scheduling an appointment, or attending with a support group or peer.

Certain anxiety disorders can have a negative effect on your life. They could increase the risk of depression or substance abuse, eating disorders and suicide. If you or someone you know is having thoughts of suicide, you can call the suicide prevention hotline for assistance.