Could You Have an Anxiety Disorder?

Many individuals are oblivious about anxiety disorders, while others may know they have signs and symptoms of these disorders, they are apprehensive in seeking help. Some feel they can control these symptoms, while others feel medication or psychiatric intervention is embarrassing or a waste of one's time and capital. There are others who fear labeling one with a mental disorder, while some fear the judicial or child/adult protective services intervening if their disorder is properly diagnosed (documented), particularly as mentally unstable or life threatening. Whatever their reasons are they can receive professional help without judgmental consequences and repercussions. Anxiety is a normal part of life. This is simply a state of apprehension or psychological tension. Maybe you're anxious about becoming a new parent, or you're nervous about parachuting, this is acceptable anxiety. There are several anxiety disorders that are not normal such as generalized anxiety - continuous uncontrollable anxiety, worry, or dread that occurs as often as six months or longer. Post Traumatic Stress Disorders (PTSD) - reliving a trauma continuously. Panic disorders - experiences recurring periods of intense fear or doom. Phobias - an exaggerated unrealistic fear of situations, objects, or activities. Agoraphobia - a basic fear of being away from a safe place or person. Obsessive/Compulsive Disorder (OCD) - current persistent unwanted thoughts, images, or ritualized repetitive behaviors. These disorders must be properly diagnosed by a professional physician. Your observation and honesty is beneficial for the best treatment plan.

Living with anxiety disorders can also cause depression - a mood disorder causing excessive sadness. This occurs when you suspect something is wrong, which causes excessive worrying. Anxiety disorders strike all ages, both sexes, and can run in families. Theses disorders can be life threatening, particularly OCD, if they are having repetitive thoughts of killing people or harming themselves. Some individuals need medication to suppress these unwanted thoughts. These disorders can also mimic heart attacks such as panic disorders, which cause physiological symptoms such as rapid heart rates and dizziness. Anxiety and its causes may involve brain abnormalities including preexisting conditions that increases a person's vulnerability. Doctors also speculate that serotonin levels contribute to chemical imbalances of the brain which cause many disorders of the brain. Researchers conclude the hippocampus is smaller from damage or atrophy of neurons, which would affect some who recover from certain disorders, opposed to those who have them for years. Seek medical attention if you suspect you or a loved one may have these disorders.

Tips taken from Amanda Kidd's Psychology class notes on anxiety disorders.