Anxiety Specialist

What’s an anxiety disorder?

Anxiety disorders are the most common mental problem, affecting roughly 30% of all adults at some point in their lives. Unlike normal feelings of worry, nervousness, and anxiousness, anxiety disorders come with excessive, intense, and persistent feelings of fear and worry in the face of stressful circumstances. These feelings often come on suddenly and can sometimes result in a panic attack, as anxiety or fear gives way to terror. The constant panic and fear felt by people with anxiety disorders takes its toll, making it difficult to take part in everyday activities and lead a normal life.

What are the symptoms?

In addition to generating persistent, intense feelings of anxiety, fear, worry, nervousness, or terror, anxiety disorders may trigger other symptoms, including:

• Feeling restless or tense
• An increased heart rate
• Rapid breathing
• Sweating, trembling, and feeling weak
• A constant sense of panic or impending danger
• Trouble concentrating or sleeping
• Digestive problems

Are there different types of anxiety disorders?

All anxiety disorders may generate similar feelings and symptoms, but not all anxiety disorders are alike. Anxiety disorders are characterized by how they originate, or the thing or set of factors that give rise to intense anxiety. Generalized anxiety disorder is defined as having excessive anxiety over ordinary activities and routine issues. Panic disorder is characterized by having repeated panic attacks. Social anxiety disorder involves intense anxiety in or before social situations. Other types of anxiety disorders include:

Specific phobias (such as agoraphobia)

• Separation anxiety disorder
• Medically-related anxiety

Can treatment help?

Anxiety disorders are highly treatable, and typically respond well to a combination of psychotherapy, or “talk therapy,” and medications. Cognitive behavior therapy can help you understand and implement different ways of thinking to keep your reactions and behavior in check. If you feel like you worry so much that it interferes with your relationships or your life in general, call Dr. Shakil to set up an appointment. It is possible to stop needless worry and live anxiety-free.