Anxiety is a normal human response to stressors such as danger or uncertainty, but it becomes abnormal when it begins to interfere with daily activities and causes a sense of dread or panic.

Anxiety can take many forms – it could be occasional worry about a future event, or it could be chronic and debilitating.

Types of Anxiety Disorders

There are several types of anxiety disorders, and they all have different symptoms and causes. Some of the most common anxiety disorders are:.

Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD)

Generalized Anxiety Disorder, or GAD, is a chronic anxiety disorder characterized by excessive, unrealistic worry that lasts for at least six months. People with GAD experience constant, uncontrollable worrying about everyday situations and events.

They also experience physical symptoms such as muscle tension, fatigue, and difficulty sleeping.

Panic Disorder

Panic disorder is characterized by sudden and unexpected panic attacks. Panic attacks are intense periods of fear and anxiety that can cause heart palpitations, sweating, shortness of breath, and a sense of doom or impending death.

Social Anxiety Disorder

Social anxiety disorder is characterized by intense fear and avoidance of social situations. People with social anxiety disorder may be excessively self-conscious and have a fear of being judged or rejected by others.

This can lead to avoiding social situations or having a panic attack in social situations.

Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)

Obsessive-compulsive disorder is characterized by unwanted, intrusive thoughts or repetitive behaviors that interfere with daily activities.

People with OCD may have an intense fear of germs or contamination, and they may engage in compulsive behaviors such as hand washing or counting to try to relieve their anxiety.

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

Post-traumatic stress disorder is a type of anxiety disorder that can occur after experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event such as a natural disaster, violent crime, or military combat.

People with PTSD may experience flashbacks, nightmares, and emotional numbness.

Related Article Understanding the difference between anxiety and anxious disorder

Normal Levels of Anxiety

Anxiety is a normal human emotion, and everyone experiences it at some point in their lives. It serves as a natural response to perceived danger and helps people prepare for a fight-or-flight response.

Normal levels of anxiety can help people stay alert and focused, and it can motivate them to take action to resolve a problem or situation.

For example, feeling anxious before a job interview or a speech is normal. A certain level of anxiety can help people stay alert and focused during these situations. It can motivate them to prepare well for the interview or the speech.

Once the situation is over, the anxiety typically subsides.

Abnormal Levels of Anxiety

While anxiety is normal in certain situations, it becomes abnormal when it is excessive, unrealistic, and interferes with daily activities.

Abnormal anxiety can cause physical and emotional distress, decreased quality of life, and can lead to other mental health disorders such as depression.

Abnormal anxiety can be chronic and debilitating, and it may not go away on its own. It is important to seek help from a mental health professional if you are experiencing abnormal levels of anxiety.

Symptoms of Abnormal Anxiety

The symptoms of abnormal anxiety can vary depending on the type of anxiety disorder, but some common symptoms include:.

• Excessive, unrealistic worry that is difficult to control
• Feeling restless or unable to sit still
• Physical symptoms such as muscle tension, headache, and fatigue
• Irritability or agitation
• Sleep disturbances such as difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep
• Panic attacks
• Avoidance of situations or activities

Treatment for Abnormal Anxiety

Treatment for abnormal anxiety depends on the type of anxiety disorder and the severity of symptoms. Some common treatments include:.

• Cognitive-behavioral therapy
• Medication such as anti-depressants or anti-anxiety medications
• Relaxation techniques such as deep breathing or meditation
• Exposure therapy

It is important to work with a mental health professional to determine the best course of treatment for your individual needs.

Conclusion

Anxiety is a normal human emotion that can serve as a natural response to perceived danger.

However, when anxiety is excessive, unrealistic, and interferes with daily activities, it becomes abnormal and can have a negative impact on a person’s quality of life. It is important to seek help from a mental health professional if you are experiencing abnormal levels of anxiety.