Understanding Anxiety Disorders: Why and How People Get Anxious

Anxiety and anxiety disorders are related, but are different from each other. Anxiety is a normal feeling that occurs whenever something important is about to happen. Anxiety disorder, however, is a persistent overwhelming feeling of distress and fear. It is chronic, unremitting, and can grow worse. Sadly, anxiety disorders are the most common illnesses in America. There are about 40 million adults who suffer from it. Anxiety disorders can be treated, but only one-third of those who suffer from anxiety disorder receive treatment.

The disease, no matter what type, is usually debilitating. One good example is the Generalized Anxiety Disorder or GAD. In this condition, the person is unable to lead a normal life and is forever worried or tense without valid reasons. Because of this, most people suffering from GAD never relax, so that they are often tired and irritable. Their condition is also coupled with other mental health problems, such as depression. Physical symptoms of GAD include: fatigue, muscle tension, edginess, restlessness, difficulty sleeping, gastrointestinal discomfort or diarrhea, and irritability.

People with panic disorder suffer from panic attacks. They would feel as if they are having a heart attack or are going crazy. There are usually repeated incidences of fear, occurring often, and without warning. Physical symptoms of panic attacks include: shortness of breath, chest pain, heart palpitations, dizziness, abdominal distress, fear of dying, and feelings of unreality.

Those affected with social phobias avoid social encounters and situations. People with social phobia often think that they are being judged by others. Often times, they are also anxious to behave in a way that causes them to be embarrassed or to be ridiculed. Extreme anxiety pushes them to have avoidance behavior. Physical symptoms include: heart palpitations, blushing, faintness, and profuse sweating.