Taking the mystery out of anxiety disorders

It is normal to feel nervous from time to time, particularly when anticipating a potentially life-changing event. However, when nervousness is excessive, persistent and intense, or arises from seemingly innocuous stimuli, that could indicate the presence of an anxiety disorder.

What is anxiety?

The American Psychiatric Association says anxiety is a normal response to stress. Anxiety disorders differ from normal nervousness because they involve excessive fear. The APA also says anxiety disorders are the most common mental disorders and affect nearly 30 percent of adults at some point in their lives. It is time to seek help when anxiety interferes with your ability to function; you often overreact when something triggers your emotions; and you can't control your responses to situations.

What contributes to anxiety disorders?

A combination of environmental factors and personality traits can increase the risk for developing anxiety disorders, according to the Cleveland Clinic. These include:

· Stressful or traumatic events in early childhood or adulthood.

· Certain personality traits like shyness or behavioral inhibition.

· Family history of anxiety or another mental health condition.

· Physical conditions, including thyroid problems and heart arrhythmias.

· Being a woman, as researchers are still studying why women experience anxiety disorders in higher proportions than men. Some researchers suggest hormonal fluctuations in women are a possible explanation for the higher rates of anxiety.

What are the types of anxiety disorders?

Several types of anxiety disorders exist, but some are more common than others.

· Generalized anxiety disorder: GAD is persistent and excessive anxiety about activities or events, even routine tasks.

· Panic disorder: This involves sudden feelings of intense fear or terror about certain situations. These panic attacks may lead to concerns about recurrence.

· Social anxiety disorder: High levels of anxiety, fear and avoidance occur during social situations, particularly fear of being judged or viewed negatively by others.

· Phobias: Major anxiety is tied to a specific object or situation and a desire to avoid it. There are phobias concerning heights, insects, leaving the home, and more.

Anxiety disorders also can develop in people dealing with substance abuse issues or certain medical conditions.

Treating anxiety disorders

It is important to note that anxiety disorders, while frightening and frustrating, are treatable. The APA says that while each anxiety disorder has unique characteristics, most respond well to psychotherapy (talk therapy) and medications. They can be given alone or in combination. Cognitive behavioral therapy, which is a type of psychotherapy, can help a person react and think differently in certain situations so they feel less anxious. Medications often are prescribed to provide relief from symptoms. The most common medications used are anti-anxiety medications, antidepressants and beta-blockers.

Anxiety disorders affect millions of people. There is help to be had and many people can overcome anxiety over time.