(Image: https://www.iampsychiatry.uk/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/human-givens-institute-logo.png)Everyone experiences anxiety or concerns from time to time. However, if the anxiety or worries become overwhelming and uncontrollable, it could indicate an anxiety disorder.
Your doctor will ask about your symptoms, and examine you to see whether they are caused by an illness of the body. There are no lab tests that can diagnose anxiety disorders, but your doctor might run a few tests to determine if you have other health issues.
Generalised anxiety disorder
Everyone experiences anxiety body symptoms and nervousness at times. This is particularly the case when life is stressful. If you're constantly stressed and tense, and you are unable to control your thoughts and fears it could be a sign that you suffer from generalized anxiety disorder. Talk to your doctor if you have any symptoms. They can assist you in creating an overall mental health plan and send you to a specialist if needed.
People suffering from GAD are constantly worried about everyday things like job duties or family health. This can cause them to be focused on these issues and avoid other activities. Anxiety may also cause them to experience difficulty sleeping. The symptoms of GAD can be mild or severe however, they typically begin in childhood or adolescence and are more prevalent in women than males.
The exact cause of GAD isn't known however, genetic and environmental factors may play a part. Children with parents who are stressed or anxious tend to develop anxiety disorders. An anxiety disorder may be triggered by a traumatic incident, but it does not occur every day.
Treatment options for generalised anxiety disorder comprise medication and therapy. Therapists can help you develop specific techniques to manage anxiety and gradually return to activities that you avoided due to your fears. Medication can reduce anxiety symptoms and ease symptoms however it should be taken under the guidance of a medical professional.
Antidepressants such as escitalopram, duloxetine and venlafaxine are frequently used to treat anxiety. These medications can be used either on their own or in combination with other types. There are also natural remedies that can help you reduce anxiety, for example meditation and yoga. You can also boost your mental wellbeing by sleeping enough, being active and eating a healthy diet.
Panic disorder
A panic disorder is described as unprovoked panic attacks that have no clear cause. It can occur when you're driving anxiety symptoms, shopping or even when you're sound asleep. Symptoms typically include a racing heartbeat, breathing difficulty and an overwhelming feeling. It is also possible to feel an eerie feeling of imminent disaster. The typical panic attack lasts between 5 and 20 minutes but it could be shorter or longer. People with panic disorder worry excessively about the time and place where their next attack will happen.
It's normal to be anxious at times. However, if your anxiety symptoms are more frequent, or for a prolonged duration, they could indicate that you are suffering from another disorder like posttraumatic stress disorder or generalized anxiety disorder. PTSD is brought on by exposure to a stressful event, like natural disasters, accidents or military service, or a violent attack.
The symptoms of panic disorder include a rapid heart rate, dizziness and shortness of breath, sweating and feelings of fear or dread. You may think that you are experiencing an emergency medical situation or a heart attack. However, despite these symptoms, it is important to be aware that panic attacks are not dangerous. They can be distressing and can disrupt your daily life.
Talk therapy can ease anxiety and ease symptoms of panic disorder. Cognitive behavioral symptoms of anxiety therapy is a type of talk therapy that helps you overcome negative thoughts and to react differently to situations that cause anxiety. You can participate in this therapy with a therapist in person or by phone. Support groups can also be beneficial in helping you feel less lonely.
Exposure therapy is a form of therapy that helps you to overcome your fears and reduce death anxiety symptoms. The treatment involves gradually exposing you things that cause anxiety, starting with the ones you are most afraid of and then moving to more challenging situations. Antidepressant medications can help prevent panic attacks or lessen their severity. Your healthcare provider may prescribe serotonin-selective reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) or serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs), which are commonly used in the treatment of depression.
Social Phobia
Social anxiety disorder is a disorder that creates extreme anxiety when it comes to social situations. People suffering from this disorder may be scared to meet new people, attend events, or even talk to strangers. They may also be afraid of being embarrassed or humiliated in public. This is distinct from normal shyness, and can cause a lot of distress and disruption to daily life. Most often, it is diagnosed in adolescence or childhood. It is most prevalent in women, and it can be associated with other mental health conditions like depression or generalized anxiety disorder.
The symptoms of social anxiety disorder can include blushing, nausea shaking, trembling, sweating, rapid heartbeat, and difficulty speaking. These symptoms can be very difficult to control and can make people feel as if they're losing their minds. These symptoms can lead people to avoid social situations and isolate themselves from friends. People with this condition may attempt to self-medicate by taking alcohol or drugs to lessen their anxiety and fears in social situations. However, this can lead to addiction issues.
Social anxiety disorders can be treated with cognitive therapy for behavioural disorders (CBT). This form of therapy assists people in changing their thinking and response to stress. CBT can help people learn to overcome their anxiety and increase their confidence in social situations. It can be combined with medications for anxiety and depression.
If you have a social anxiety disorder, it is recommended to consult your GP if the symptoms are causing an excessive amount of stress and interfere with your everyday life. Your GP can make you feel comfortable and ask questions about your symptoms. They will then refer you to a mental health professional for further assessment and treatment.
Lifestyle changes can also aid in relieving symptoms. For instance, it's a good idea to avoid stimulants like caffeine as they can increase anxiety. It is also beneficial to exercise in order to relax your mind and body.
Obsessive-compulsive disorder
People with anxiety disorders feel excessive fear or worry that is out of proportion to the situation, or their health. These symptoms last for a long time and often interfere with their daily lives. They may experience a variety of symptoms like panic attacks, trembling and breathing difficulties. They may also suffer from chest pain, heart palpitations and fast, pounding pulses. Certain anxiety disorders can be very severe. But there are a variety of ways to manage them.
The most effective treatments are cognitive behaviour therapy and medication. Both can help you change your thinking patterns to ensure that your brain doesn't react to specific situations in such a frightening and worrying manner. You can also find support groups for anxiety either in person or online. These are an excellent place to connect with other people who suffer from the same condition, and share your experiences and strategies. It is also essential to stay well-hydrated and eat a balanced diet, avoiding drinks and foods that contain caffeine, which could cause your symptoms to worsen.
It's normal to feel anxious or fearful about certain things. For example, a thunderstorm and the barking of a dog. If these fears begin to impact your daily routine, and you start to avoid certain places or avoid certain people it could be an appropriate time to seek out a medical professional.
Some of these symptoms could be caused by a physical illness such as a thyroid disorder or stomach disorder. You can reduce your risk of developing these symptoms by having regular check-ups and following a healthy diet.
Another way to lower anxiety is to distract yourself. You can try doing a hobby, such as knitting or making an jigsaw. Exercise releases mood-enhancing chemicals in the brain. It's also a good idea to cut down on alcohol and recreational drugs, which can cause anxiety symptoms to worsen. Finally, get enough sleep. Sleep is essential to your emotional and mental health.