Frequently Asked Questions About Anxiety Disorders

Almost everyone experiences a certain degree of anxiety at some point. However, an anxiety disorder is a serious mental health condition where anxiety gets out of control and interferes with one's ability to function daily and enjoy life. Perhaps you worry that you or a loved one struggles with an anxiety disorder and are unsure what to do. If so, here are some of the most frequently asked questions about anxiety disorders to guide those struggling.

What is an anxiety disorder?

Not all anxiety is bad; we need a certain amount to keep us safe in potentially dangerous situations. However, an anxiety disorder goes beyond this to the point where feelings of fear, dread, and panic interfere with our health and ability to function. Here is an overview of the most common anxiety disorders and their defining characteristics:

• Generalized Anxiety Disorder(GAD): daily and persistent feelings of dread and being on edge; easily fatigued and irritated; inability to concentrate; sleep troubles; stomach, head, and muscle pains.
• Panic Disorder: frequent and unexpected panic attacks involving a pounding heart, sweating, trembling, chest pain, and feelings of losing control
• Social Anxiety Disorder: Intense fear of being watched and judged by others to the point where one does not want to be around people.
• Phobia: Irrational and intense fears of objects or situations that are out of proportion to the actual danger they pose.

What causes an anxiety disorder?

The causes of these disorders are complex and not entirely known. They often appear to be due to a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Anxiety disorders often run in families and can involve an imbalance in brain chemicals. In addition, traumatic or stressful life experiences appear to trigger anxiety disorders in those predisposed to them.

Substance overuse can exacerbate these disorders. Also, those exposed to trauma as children are at higher risk for developing an anxiety disorder. It is also important to note that certain physical illnesses can exhibit symptoms associated with anxiety disorders. This is why a diagnosis from a medical professional is important.

How is an anxiety disorder diagnosed?

A psychiatrist is a medical doctor and one of the main types of professionals qualified to diagnose and treat these disorders. A psychiatrist conducts a physical and psychological exam and examines a patient's health and personal history. The doctor will ask the patient about their symptoms, duration, and what they feel may be causing them. Part of this exam is intended to rule out any physical causes of symptoms. Therefore, the psychiatrist may order tests to rule these causes out.

What are the treatment options?

Treatment is tailored to the individual and typically involves the use of medication and talk therapy. The type of medication recommended depends on the nature and type of the patient's anxiety disorder and individual health circumstances. It may take some time for the doctor and patient to find the right medication and get the dosage right. How well the patient tolerates any side effects are also important to consider.

There are several forms of talk therapy that can be helpful. Cognitive behavioral therapy, exposure therapy, and dialectical behavioral therapy are often recommended for those with anxiety. These therapies can help patients develop strategies for coping with and overcoming their anxiety.