Anxiety Disorders
There are a number of specific types of anxieties:
- Generalized Anxiety involves excessive worry and anxiety regarding any event or situation
- Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder involves obsessions (repetitive and intrusive thoughts) and compulsions (repetitive behaviors and/or mental acts). The compulsions are often linked to the obsessions in terms of the compulsive behaviors relieving the obsessional thoughts
- Panic Disorder (with or without agoraphobia) is a specific period of time when an individual experiences intense fear or discomfort with a number of physical symptoms including sweating, heart palpitations, shortness of breath, and dizziness
- Agoraphobia is a fear about being in places or situations from which escape might be difficult or embarrassing<
- Specific Phobias are excessive and intense fears about specific situations or the anticipation of facing that feared situation (e.g., animals, heights, flying, driving)
- Social Phobia (Social Anxiety Disorder) is a fear of one or more social situations or performance situations. Fears often involve the concern that the individual will humiliate or embarrass him/herself
- Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder is the ongoing traumatic and stressful response to a traumatic event which was experienced, but is no longer present
Anxiety disorders can be powerful, chronic, and debilitating. Individuals with anxiety disorders often suffer quietly and are hesitant to express their fears or struggles with others. These individuals often are perfectionistic and set unrealistic expectations for themselves.
Assessment of anxiety disorders involves gathering a developmental and clinical history, understanding the current symptoms, and completing behavioral symptom checklists.
The primary treatment for anxiety disorders is a combination of Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT) and medications. Depending on the severity of the symptoms, CBT can be attempted initially without medication. With children, CBT without medication usually is the initial treatment of choice. Medication is recommended if CBT is not effective.
Contact the following links to organizations with detailed information and resources regarding anxiety disorders:
Anxiety Disorders Association of America (ADAA)