People often experience a general state of worry, because anxiety is a natural reaction to life’s problems. It helps you deal with a challenging situation at the office, study carefully for a test, and stay focused on making an important decision. But, when an anxiety interferes with daily activities and the person’s relationship and work, it is considered a disabling disorder.
Anxiety disorder can be classified into five main specific types.
1. Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) is excessive and unrealistic worry and tension about non-specific life events, goals, and situations.
2. Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is a condition characterized by repetitive behaviors and persistent, unwanted thoughts.
3. Panic attacks are characterized by repeated and unexpected attacks of intense fear.
4. Social Anxiety Disorder is the fear of social situations. People with social phobia have anxiety about being observed and judged by others.
5. Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is an anxiety disorder that can occur after exposure to a traumatic event involving the threat of injury or death.
Symptoms
Symptoms depend on the type of anxiety disorder, but general symptoms include:
Heart palpitations, muscle tension, difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep, being startled easily, irritability, tremors, upset stomach, nausea, diarrhea, headache, back pain, restlessness, difficulty concentrating, hands and/or feet cold or sweaty, shortness of breath, fatigue.
Treatment
Anxiety can be treated with medication, psychotherapy, or both.
Medicines will not cure anxiety disorders, but they can keep them under control while the person receives psychotherapy. Several different types of medications, such as antidepressants, anti-anxiety drugs, and beta blockers, are used to treat anxiety disorder.
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and exposure therapy are two effective treatments for anxiety disorder. Cognitive behavioral therapy helps people change the thought patterns that are causing their anxiety.
self help
In some cases, that anxiety is short-lived or the cause is identified and can be eliminated or avoided. There are several exercises and actions that are recommended to cope with this type of anxiety:
Exercise – Exercise is a natural stress buster and anxiety reliever.
Talk to a person who supports you.
Relaxation Techniques: Relaxation can reduce anxiety and increase feelings of relaxation and emotional well-being.
Learn how to replace “negative self-talk” with “coping self-talk.”
Learn to manage stress in your life.
Eat a healthy diet. Avoid fatty, sugary, and processed foods. Include foods in your diet that are rich in omega-3 fatty acids and B vitamins.
Make sleep a priority. Do what you can to make sure you’re getting enough sleep.