Types of Anxiety Disorders

Anxiety disorders are a group of mental disorders that involve anxiety as one of the major symptoms. There may be other significant symptoms as well, but anxiety always plays a part of this mental disorder category. These disorders are, in many cases, easily treated and effectively managed through the use of therapy and, in some cases, prescription medication.

Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) is a common disorder where a person simply can not rid themselves of worries which are unfounded or extreme. People who have this disorder often believe the worst has happened when someone is only a little late, they tend to be tense, irritable and restless. They may also have difficulty falling asleep or remaining asleep through the night. Headaches, shaking, twitches, sweating and muscle tension can also be symptoms. This is one of the most treatable disorders and can often be cured. Cognitive behavioral therapy, biofeedback, application of relaxation techniques may be part of the treatment plan.

Panic Disorder is an anxiety disorder where a person has panic attacks that overcome them frequently without warning. They experience heart-pounding terror and can not predict when an attack will occur. Symptoms include racing heartbeat, chest pain, dizziness, nausea, shaking or trembling, sweating, numbness, and frequently a feeling of being outside reality. People who have this disorder sometimes say they feel as if they are crazy, but they are not. Treatment is usually cognitive behavioral therapy combined with anti-anxiety medications.

Phobias, including agoraphobia, fall into the category of anxiety disorders. This disorder is having an unreasonable, focused fear about a specific thing or situation such as flying or insects. Symptoms include full-blown panic attacks and treatment is usually behavioral therapy.

Post-traumatic Stress Disorder is another anxiety disorder that results from the experience of a traumatic event. Symptoms include flashbacks of the event, anxiety, startle reactions, difficulty focusing, nightmares and insomnia. Psychotherapy can be helpful for treating this anxiety disorder, usually combined with prescription medications.