Anxiety Disorders
Anxiety disorders are very common. They can make people anxious and worried about things that they do not have any control over. It can also create a sense of fear about uncertain situations or imagined events. Anxiety disorders do not only have mental symptoms, but physical ones as well. The disorder manifests itself physically by creating muscle tension, increased heart rate, sweating and difficulty breathing. Some common types of anxiety disorders include Panic disorder, Obsessive Compulsive disorder, Post-Traumatic Stress disorder, Generalized Anxiety disorder, Agoraphobia and Specific phobias
The impact that an anxiety disorder will have on a person’s life is based on the severity of the condition. Some people are able to get through daily life with ease even though they suffer from an anxiety disorder. Other people who have a more advanced anxiety disorder may find it near impossible to go to work, school or even shopping. These disorders can make people want to stay inside and keep to themselves. These disorders can also impact a person’s life by making them “sick” with worry. Extreme forms of anxiety disorders can cause people to lose sleep, their appetite and motivation. Those who suffer from anxiety often respond poorly to stress. The stress can be caused by a variety of different factors including financial concerns, health problems, family life and work performance.
The cause of anxiety disorders is unknown, but some medical professionals believe that there is strong evidence that biological factors are to blame. This includes having low levels of a neurotransmitter called GABA. Anxiety can also be attributed to alcohol and caffeine use. There are many treatments that have proven to be very effective in treating those suffering from an anxiety disorder. Medication is often prescribed to help treat those suffering from an anxiety disorder. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors are generally the first line of medicinal treatment prescribed to those suffering from many different forms of anxiety. They are very effective because they increase the level of serotonin (a neurotransmitter) in the brain. These medications have side effects and should only be taken as prescribed. Other medications that are used to treat anxiety disorders include benzodiazepines and serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors. Therapy has proven to be very beneficial for treating those with anxiety including cognitive behavioural therapy and psychotherapy. Therapy can help to give the patient alternative ways of coping and dealing with their anxiety and worries. There are many inexpensive resources that are available to people struggling with anxiety that they can work on privately including self-help books, yoga and breathing techniques.
We will provide you with helpful information about many different types of anxiety disorders including Panic disorder, Obsessive Compulsive disorder, Post-Traumatic Stress disorder, Generalized Anxiety disorder, Agoraphobia and Specific phobias. We will also provide you with information about treatment and ways to cope with anxiety disorders.
