Anxiety Disorders
Anxiety Disorders: A Brief Overview
Occasional anxiety is a natural aspect of life, and it’s common for individuals to fret about matters like health, finances, or family issues. However, anxiety disorders are characterized by more persistent and worsening anxiety that does not subside over time. The symptoms of these disorders can disrupt daily activities such as work, school, and relationships.
There are several types of anxiety disorders, including generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, social anxiety disorder, and phobia-related disorders.
Anxiety Disorders Essential Information
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Generalized Anxiety Disorder
Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) is ongoing anxiety that isn’t related to a particular event or situation.
![A young businessman having a panic attack in an office. Panic disorder is a condition in which a person has sudden episodes of intense fear or anxiety. These episodes are known as panic attacks.](https://familydoctor.org/wp-content/uploads/1995/11/42479082_l-412x255.jpg)
Panic Disorder and Panic Attacks
Panic disorder is a condition in which a person has episodes of intense fear or anxiety that occur suddenly, often without warning.
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Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder
Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) causes unwanted thoughts (obsessions) and repetitive behaviors (compulsions).
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Social Phobia
Social phobia, also called social anxiety disorder, is a fear of being judged by others during social situations.
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Hoarding
Hoarding disorder is classified by a person being unable to get rid of things, even things of no value.
Diagnosis
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Talking to Your Doctor About Your Mental Health
Deciding to talk to your doctor about your mental health is the first step on your journey to feeling better.
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Mental Health Diagnosis: What’s Next?
Receiving a diagnosis of a mental health condition can be overwhelming. It’s important to take the diagnosis seriously and take action.
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Warning Signs of Mental Illness
Mental illness affects people’s thoughts, feelings, and behavior. Most often, people have and show early signs of illness.
Treatment
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Different Types of Mental Health Treatment
There are a variety of treatments available for mental health conditions. Don’t be afraid to ask for help.
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Therapy and Counseling
Professional therapy and counseling can improve your mental wellness. Therapy can also help people who have a mental health disorder.
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Nutrition and Mental Health
New research finds that your food choices may also affect your mood and mental health. This is sometimes called the “food-mood connection.”
Prevention
![Doctor talking to male patient about mental health.](https://familydoctor.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/mental-health-1200x800-1-412x255.jpg)
Taking Care of Your Mental Health
Talking about mental illness can be hard. The stigma that surrounds mental health and mental illness can prevent people from getting the support and help they need.
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Mental Health: Keeping Your Emotional Health
Being emotionally healthy doesn’t mean you’re happy all the time. It means you’re aware of your emotions.
Doctors’ Notes
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Physical symptoms can be your body’s way of letting you know you aren’t coping with stress well. Easy stress management may help patients feel better. Read More