Anxiety Disorders

Anxiety disorders include several illnesses with prominent symptoms of anxiety. Although each of these disorders is distinct, an individual generally suffers from more than one at a time. Anxiety disorders are not uncommon: about one third of women are diagnosed with some form of the condition at some point in their lives. Seeking treatment can help manage the symptoms and keep them from becoming chronic.

Some common types of anxiety disorders include:

Panic disorder
Obsessive-compulsive disorder
Post-traumatic stress disorder
Generalized anxiety disorder
Phobias
Anxiety during pregnancy

There is not always a clear boundary between normal anxiety and a disorder that requires treatment. When anxiety substantially impairs work, family or social adjustment, treatment may be worthwhile.

Different medications and psychotherapies have been shown to be most effective for specific types of panic disorders, so getting an accurate diagnosis is crucial. Many individuals with anxiety disorders also benefit from reading about their disorder and the process of psychotherapy treatment.