Overcoming Anxiety: An Overview of Common Disorders and Their Symptoms

Anxiety is a normal and often healthy emotion that everyone experiences from time to time.

However, when anxiety becomes excessive and persistent, it can interfere with daily life and become a disorder. There are several different types of anxiety disorders, including generalized anxiety disorder, social anxiety disorder, and panic disorder.

Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) is characterized by excessive, persistent worry and tension about everyday life events and activities. People with GAD may find it difficult to control their worry and may experience a range of physical symptoms, including fatigue, muscle tension, irritability, and difficulty sleeping.

Social Anxiety Disorder (SAD) is marked by extreme fear and anxiety in social situations, often resulting in avoidance of social interactions. People with SAD may feel self-conscious and worry about being judged or embarrassed in social situations, leading them to avoid events or activities that involve socializing.

Panic Disorder is characterized by sudden, intense episodes of fear and anxiety, known as panic attacks. Panic attacks can be triggered by a variety of situations and may include physical symptoms such as a racing heart, shortness of breath, and dizziness. People with panic disorder may also experience anticipatory anxiety, worrying about when the next panic attack will occur.

Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is a type of anxiety disorder characterized by obsessive thoughts and compulsive behaviors. Obsessive thoughts are unwanted and repetitive thoughts, ideas, or images that cause anxiety or distress. Compulsive behaviors are repetitive actions that an individual feels driven to perform in response to an obsessive thought.

If you think you or someone you know may be experiencing symptoms of an anxiety disorder, it is important to seek help from a mental health professional. With proper treatment, including therapy and medication, it is possible to manage anxiety and improve overall quality of life.

If you are struggling with your mental health, Real Solutions Therapeutic Services offer counseling services that can help. We are located in Wilmington, NC. We can conduct services all over North Carolina via Telehealth. Please feel free to reach out to us for an appointment by clicking here. We would be happy to assist you.