Everyone worries from time to time, and a little bit of anxiety can be motivating and energizing. But, when worry and nervousness become exaggerated, persistent, and unrealistic, an anxiety disorder may be the reason.
Anxiety disorders are a group of conditions that are often misunderstood. "It's all in your head," is a common refrain when reacting to someone with an anxiety disorder. "You can get over it" is another. However, anxiety disorders are very real and can significantly impact a person's daily life.
There are several types of anxiety disorders that one might experience - generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), agoraphobia, panic attacks and panic disorder, phobias, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
There are many symptoms common to these disorders, but some of the most frequently noted are exaggerated worry, a fear of going crazy or losing control, a detachment from the environment, flushes or chills, trembling, hot flashes, chest pain, and trouble breathing. Each can also lead to depression and substance abuse.