From time to time, we all get anxious. In fact, anxiety is a normal part of life because most people worry occasionally about life and things such as health, the future, money, problems, and life situations. However, there is a borderline to what constitutes “normal’.

Anxiety disorder is a medical condition characterized by symptoms of long-term intense and irrational worry, panic, and fear. In general, these disorders may result directly from physical health problems, and is reflected by persistent and excessive anxiety about ordinary things and routine activities. These symptoms frequently impair one’s quality of life by interfering with daily activities such as work, school, and life. In these situations, the feelings of anxiety do not just vanish or go away but instead, they increase and continue to get worse with time. Consequently, patients who suffer anxiety disorders require professional help and medical treatment to recover. Research shows that both genetic and environmental factors contribute to the risk of developing an anxiety disorder. Although risk factors for each type of anxiety disorder may vary, general risk factors are shyness, trauma, and genetic predisposition. In addition, some illnesses such as thyroid or heart conditions, as well as substances such as caffeine may aggravate anxiety disorders.

There are various types of anxiety disorders depending on the symptoms, and they include:

1. Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD): This involves a constant feeling of fear beyond what is considered normal for months or years, hindering daily life. Symptoms may include restlessness, fatigue, lack of concentration, irritability, body aches and insomnia.
2. Panic disorder: People experiencing panic disorder suffer recurrent and sudden panic attacks. These are periods of intense fear, irritation, or feelings of loss of control, especially without any cause or impending danger. Some people experience occasional panic attacks and are not considered to have a panic disorder. This disorder is characterized by profuse sweating, increased heartbeat, chest pain, quivering and lack of control.
3. Phobia-related disorders: Phobia is an extreme fear of, or aversion to specific things or places. It is characterized by disproportionate amount of fear compared to the actual danger caused by the situation or object. Symptoms include irrational or excessive fear about facing an object or situation, taking active steps to avoid the feared object or situation and experiencing immediate and extreme anxiety on facing the feared object or situation. Types of phobias include specific phobia such as phobia for heights, social phobia, agoraphobia, and separation anxiety disorders. 

Treatment options for anxiety disorders are Psychotherapy and Medication

1. Psychotherapy: Psychotherapy may help people with anxiety disorders if directed at their specific anxieties by a professional therapist. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is an example of psychotherapy that helps people feel less anxious by teaching them different ways of thinking, acting, and responding to situations. Another example of Psychotherapy is Exposure therapy which focuses on confrontation and facing one’s fears. Finally, Acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) is a Psychotherapy that uses methods like mindfulness and goal setting to reduce discomfort and anxiety. Stress management methods such as exercise, and meditation may reduce anxiety symptoms and improve the results of psychotherapy.
2. Medication: Medication does not cure anxiety disorders but can help relieve symptoms. Health care providers, such as a psychiatrist or primary care providers, can prescribe medication for anxiety. Some of these medications include antidepressants, anti-anxiety medications and beta-blockers. Some medications may work better for specific types of anxiety disorders, so it is necessary to work closely with a health care provider to identify the best option as self-medication is deadly. More so, substances such as caffeine, some drugs, and herbal supplements may interact with prescribed medication.
3. Support and Self-help groups: Problem sharing, accountability and learning from others can help people to cope with anxiety disorders. These groups are often confidential and convenient- available in person and online. It is important to remain cautious with suggestions from these groups and they should not replace treatment recommendations from health care providers.