Anxiety disorders, although generally specific to each individual, are the most common psychiatric illnesses that affect adults. There are several types of anxiety disorders including panic disorders, phobias, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD), Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), and Social Anxiety Disorder.
People who have panic disorders usually suffer from panic attacks. Panic attacks can be mild or very severe. The symptoms can be quite scary as they often feel similar to those of a heart attack. The symptoms might include having a shortness of breath, chest pain, a feeling of tightness in the chest, sweating, shaking, and even irrational fears of dying. Panic attacks are a difficult anxiety disorder to mange because they usually come on very suddenly and can be difficult to get under control, causing the person to suffer poor quality of life if they don’t find ways to manage them. When it comes to phobias, people usually suffer from specific types of phobias, such as being afraid of bees or being afraid to leave the house. People who suffer from strong phobias can sometimes let their phobias rule their life and will avoid common, everyday things in fear. This anxiety disorder is sometimes treated by subjecting the person to their phobia in a safe environment. Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is an anxiety disorder that gives a person recurring thoughts that are usually accompanied by fear. For example, a person might feel compelled to walk around a table three times with the strong feeling that if they don’t, something bad will happen. Many people with OCD also worry incessantly about cleanliness. Anxiety typically follows this, as can other symptoms such as depression, hoarding, and various compulsions. Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) is a blanket term for an anxiety disorder that is usually caused by one or more factors in the person’s life. For example, a person might have anxiety about their job or health. This can lead the person to worrying constantly which can then lead to bowel problems, insomnia, sexual side effects, and even aches and pains. Post Traumatic Stress Disorder typically occurs after a person has been through a stressful situation, such as a death, physical assault, or abuse. The person can then have panic attacks when reminded of this event. PTSD can last for years and substantially decrease the person’s quality of life. They might find themselves reliving the event when reminded of it and also have trouble forming close relationships, concentrating, and living a happy life. With Social Anxiety Disorder, the person is afraid to be in social settings because they think that they are being judged. This might eventually lead them to become agoraphobic in that they’re afraid to leave their home. Almost all anxiety disorders can be treated with medication and counseling. It’s always important to seek medical care if you ever feel as though your quality of life is being affected.
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