Anxiety disorders
Anxiety disorders
Anxiety disorders (/æŋˈzaɪ.ə.ti dɪsˈɔːrdərz/) are a group of mental health disorders characterized by feelings of anxiety and fear. Anxiety is a worry about future events, and fear is a reaction to current events. These feelings may cause physical symptoms, such as a fast heart rate and shakiness.
Etymology
The term "anxiety" comes from the Latin word "anxietatem," meaning "a state of agitation or worry." The term "disorder" comes from the Old French "desordre," meaning "lack of order or sequence."
Types of Anxiety Disorders
There are several types of anxiety disorders, including:
- Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD)
- Panic Disorder
- Phobia-related disorders
- Social Anxiety Disorder (SAD)
- Separation Anxiety Disorder
- Selective Mutism
- Agoraphobia
Each of these disorders has specific symptoms and treatments, but all involve excessive, irrational fear and dread.
Symptoms
Common symptoms of anxiety disorders include:
- Feeling nervous, restless or tense
- Having a sense of impending danger, panic or doom
- Having an increased heart rate
- Breathing rapidly (hyperventilation)
- Sweating
- Trembling
- Feeling weak or tired
- Trouble concentrating or thinking about anything other than the present worry
Causes
The causes of anxiety disorders are complex and are generally a combination of genetic, environmental, psychological and developmental factors.
Treatment
Treatment for anxiety disorders can involve psychotherapy, medication, or both. Psychotherapy, or talk therapy, can help a person understand and control their feelings. Medication can help manage the physical symptoms of anxiety.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Anxiety disorders
- Wikipedia's article - Anxiety disorders
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