Anxiety disorders are relatively common and can affect anyone from all walks of life. However, the anxiety experienced in individuals with anxiety disorders is distinct from the everyday fear or nervousness over what’s to come. It is usually disproportionate to the situation, and/or hinders ability to function in everyday life. This general feeling of fear may linger with the individual all the time, and in extreme cases, be specific and prevent them from entering an elevator, leaving their house, meeting their friends.
Common signs of Anxiety
- Feeling nervous, restless, or tense
- A sense of impending doom, danger, or panic
- Increased heart rate
- Hyperventilation
- Increased sweating
- Trouble concentrating
- Difficulty falling asleep
- Anxiety attack
Types of Anxiety
Generalised Anxiety Disorder
Involving persistent and excessive worry that interferes with daily life, often accompanied like physical signs (such as muscle tension, problems sleeping). The worry often focuses itself on everyday things such as family, work, education, chores.
Panic Disorder
Regular sudden attacks of panic or fear. Someone with panic disorder has feelings of anxiety, stress, and panic regularly and at any time, often without apparent reason.
Phobias (Specific)
Intense fear or anxiety of certain items and situations that pose little to no threat (e.g., a non-poisonous spider). This intense fear could also be triggered just by the thought of the feared object.
Social Anxiety Disorder
Common problem that usually starts during teenage years and may have a big impact on life. It is a fear that does not go away and affects everyday activities, self-confidence, relationships, and work or school life. Constantly feeling overly worried before, during, and after social situations.
Coping with Anxiety
Dealing with Anxiety can be especially challenging and overwhelming when the negative feelings that accompany it are persistent and intense. However, with the right combination of support from loved ones and therapy, when necessary, would help individuals dealing with Anxiety find themselves in a better place.
