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Learn About Anxiety

Everyone experiences feelings of anxiety during the course of their life

Anxiety is a sense of uneasiness, nervousness, worry, fear, or dread about what’s going to happen. It is common and even expected during different stages of development, meaning it’s a natural part of growing up and being exposed to new and sometimes stressful situations. For example, it is common for a student to express that they feel anxious about a test. These feelings usually fade, but when they persist or intensify, they may indicate an anxiety disorder, where worry becomes overwhelming and affects daily life.

Click on the tabs and links below for additional information and resources related to anxiety.

SYMPTOMS & RISK FACTORS

Symptoms include:

  • Nervousness/Restlessness
  • Hyperventilation
  • Nausea
  • Trembling
  • Sweating
  • Irritability
  • Sleep problems
  • Irritability
  • Fatigue
  • Shorter attention span

Risk factors include:

  • Underlying health issues such as heart disease, diabetes, hyperthyroidism, respiratory disease, withdrawal, chronic pain
  • Family history
  • Trauma
  • Stress buildup
  • Drug abuse
  • Other mental health disorders

COMMON ANXIETY DISORDERS

Types of anxiety disorders include:

  • Generalized Anxiety Disorder: Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) produces a persistent feeling of anxiety or dread. These symptoms differ from occasional feelings of worry. Rather, GAD manifests frequently over several weeks or months. People often experience physical symptoms associated with psychological symptoms. Severe cases of GAD can prevent individuals from carrying out normal activities, but many people can still function at work, school, and social activities.
  • Panic Disorder: People who experience frequent, unexpected panic attacks might be diagnosed with panic disorder. Spending long periods with fear of having another panic attack can be another risk factor for developing panic disorder. Symptoms of panic disorder can be frightening and affect both personal and professional activities.
  • Separation Anxiety: Often diagnosed in childhood, separation anxiety involves a fear of being away from others, usually loved ones. While feelings of uncertainty are common and normal, unexplained severity or persistence of these feelings might indicate separation anxiety.
  • Social Anxiety: Social anxiety involves fear and avoidance of social situations, often driven by intense self-consciousness and worry about being judged negatively. It is important to distinguish between social anxiety and shyness; social anxiety disorder can be addressed through treatment.

TREATMENT & PREVENTION

Treatment & Prevention

  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): This short-term treatment teaches new ways of thinking, behaving, and reacting. Therapists will impart specific skills that will improve symptoms and allow for a return to regular activities over time. Exposure therapy is a subtype of CBT that is often used to build confidence when exposed to an anxiety trigger.
  • Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT): ACT is a newer form of psychotherapy that uses strategies like goal setting and mindfulness to improve the response to unfavorable circumstances. Rather than avoiding feelings of sadness or disappointment, individuals are taught to develop psychological flexibility and adapt to the inevitable aspects of life.
  • Medication: Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and beta blockers are common medications used in anxiety treatment. Consult a healthcare provider for guidance.
  • Support groups: Sharing problems and achievements with others can be a positive outlet for people experiencing symptoms of anxiety. Virtual and in-person options allow for greater accessibility to these groups. If diagnosed with an anxiety disorder, support groups should accompany recommended treatment from health professionals.
  • Prevention: Early identification of symptoms of anxiety can improve the prospects of treatment. Finding productive hobbies, such as cooking, physical activity, or reading, can complement personal relationships. Drugs and alcohol should be minimized; please seek care a health professional if you face concerns with substance abuse.

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