Anxiety
Anxiety is a natural response to stress or danger and is often characterized by feelings of fear, worry, or unease. It’s a normal part of life and can be beneficial in certain situations, as it can alert us to potential threats and help us respond appropriately. However, when anxiety becomes excessive or persistent, it can interfere with daily life and be indicative of an anxiety disorder.
There are several types of anxiety disorders, including generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), panic disorder, social anxiety disorder, and specific phobias. These disorders can be treated with therapy, medication, or a combination of both. It’s important to seek help from a mental health professional if you or someone you know is experiencing persistent or debilitating anxiety.
Understanding Anxiety
Understanding Phobias
Social Anxiety Disorder
Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD)
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Anxiety is a natural response to stress or danger, characterized by feelings of fear, worry, or unease. Unlike everyday stress, anxiety is often excessive, persistent, and can interfere with daily life.
Common symptoms of anxiety disorders include excessive worrying, restlessness, fatigue, irritability, muscle tension, and sleep disturbances. These symptoms can vary in intensity and duration depending on the individual and the specific type of anxiety disorder.
Anxiety disorders can be caused by a combination of factors, including genetics, brain chemistry, personality, and life experiences. Traumatic events, stress, and certain medical conditions can also contribute to the development of anxiety disorders.
Anxiety disorders are typically diagnosed based on a thorough evaluation of symptoms and medical history. Treatment may include therapy, medication, or a combination of both. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is a common form of therapy used to treat anxiety disorders.
Managing anxiety involves developing healthy coping mechanisms and lifestyle habits. This can include practicing relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing or meditation, exercising regularly, maintaining a healthy diet, getting enough sleep, and seeking support from friends, family, or a mental health professional.
KEY TERMS
A complex condition characterized by compulsive drug use or behavior despite harmful consequences.
Substance Use Disorder (SUD) A clinical term used to describe addiction to drugs or alcohol.
Physical or psychological reliance on a substance, often leading to withdrawal symptoms when use is reduced or stopped.
Support groups, such as Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) and Narcotics Anonymous (NA), that follow a structured, 12-step approach to recovery.
The process of overcoming addiction and maintaining a substance-free lifestyle.
The process of removing toxins from the body, often used to describe the initial stages of treatment for addiction.
The return to substance use or addictive behavior after a period of abstinence.
Physical and psychological symptoms that occur when a person stops using a substance they are dependent on.