According to the World Health Organization (WHO) and the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), Anxiety Disorders are the most common mental health issues in the world, affecting nearly 40 million Americans each year.
While mild anxiety is a built-in defense mechanism that serves a vital safety purpose in daily life, an intense and long-lasting anxiety disorder can be debilitating.
When anxiety is persistent and occurs when there is no imminent danger, it takes control of a person’s life and has a profound effect on their daily routine, including home, work or school.
Finding low stress jobs for people with anxiety can be helpful for minimizing the symptoms, but even that is not always possible.
Anxiety can have an impact on both the physical and emotional well being of a person afflicted with the disorder.
Physical Symptoms of Anxiety Disorder Include:
- Shortness of breath
- Racing heart
- Profuse sweating
- Tremors
Emotional Symptoms Include:
- Depression
- Restlessness
- Irritability
- Constant fear or dread
- Insomnia
While these are just a few symptoms of anxiety disorder, it’s important to note that these are ongoing and persistent, instead of fleeting from time to time. While these are generalized symptoms of anxiety, it should also be noted that there are various classifications of anxiety.
What are the Main Types of Anxiety Disorders?
- Generalized Anxiety Disorder
- Panic Disorder
- Obsessive Compulsive Disorder
- Social Anxiety Disorder
- Specific Phobias
- Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder
Although no person is immune to anxiety disorders, it might bring some comfort to many people to know that very successful people also have bouts with anxiety. Actors, musicians and athletes deal with the stress and fear of performing, as do public speakers. Some of it is necessary to increase focus and concentration. Only when it becomes consistent and overwhelming does it warrant medical attention.
Anxiety Disorder Treatment
Because there are varying types of anxiety disorders, each one should be treated on a case-by-case basis and tailored to the individual. With that said, the most common forms of treatment include:
- Psychotherapy
- Medication (antianxiety and antidepressants) – What is a Xanax Bar?
- Techniques for stress and relaxation
The infographic below illustrates the common types of anxiety disorders along with physical and emotional symptoms, and a few famous people who have lived with anxiety.
To see it in it’s entirety visit Tower of Power.
