Overview
Anxiety is your body’s natural response to stress. It’s a feeling of fear or apprehension about what’s to come. The first day of school, going to a job interview, or giving a speech may cause most people to feel fearful and nervous.
But if your feelings of anxiety are extreme, last for longer than six months, and are interfering with your life, you may have an anxiety disorder.
What are the types of anxiety disorders?
– Panic Disorder: experiencing recurring panic attacks at unexpected times. A person with panic disorder may live in fear of the next panic attack.
– Phobia: excessive fear of a specific object, situation, or activity
– Social Anxiety Disorder: extreme fear of being judged by others in social situations
– Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder: recurring irrational thoughts that lead you to perform specific, repeated behaviors
– Separation Anxiety Disorder: fear of being away from home or loved ones
– Illness Anxiety Disorder: anxiety about your health (formerly called hypochondria)
– Post-Rraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD): anxiety following a traumatic event
What are the symptoms of anxiety?
– Increased heart rate
– Rapid breathing
– Restlessness
– Trouble Concentrating
– Difficulty falling asleep
