Anxiety - How it Affects You

Anxiety is a normal feeling everyone has. It helps us cope with the stresses of everyday life, and even provides motivation. But when anxiety produces feelings of dread, begins to affect you physically, and makes everyday activities seem impossible, you could be dealing with an anxiety disorder. Anxiety disorders are very common mental disorders. In fact, about 40 million people in America suffer from anxiety disorders. Unlike mild anxiety, the kind that is experienced when one has a pressing exam or a speech, anxiety disorders can become disabling. They cause fearfulness and uncertainty.They can last up to six months, or longer, if not treated, and have a tendency to get worse instead of better.

There are five major types of anxiety disorders. These types are generalized anxiety disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, panic disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, and social anxiety disorder. Each one bears different, but equally terrifying symptoms, and can get worse if not treated properly.

Panic disorder affects approximately six million adults in America. It is far more common in women as it is in men. During an attack, a person might feel sudden bouts of terror, accompanied by trembling, tightness in the chest, rapid, pounding heartbeat, and dizziness. They usually bring a feeling of losing control, nausea, and numbing or tingling in the hands, feet, and\or face.

Panic attacks can occur at any time, anywhere. People who suffer from panic attacks often avoid busy or more populated areas because they fear having a panic attack in public. Some avoid normal activities, such as driving, because they fear having a car accident. When a person become housebound because of their panic disorder, they should seek professional help immediately. Panic disorder is believed to be hereditary.