An anxiety disorder is described as a group of mental illnesses that cause overwhelming feelings of anxiety and fear that can negatively affect an individual's ability to lead a normal and productive life.

The Different Types of Anxiety Disorders

Panic Disorder

Panic disorders refer to sudden and intense feelings of fear that trigger panic attacks. This disorder manifests in the form of heart palpitations, sweating, and the shortening of breath.

Phobias

Phobias concerning anxiety disorders refer to the irrational fear of a particular situation or object that an individual may go to great lengths to avoid. An example of a phobia that induces extreme anxiety is social phobia. Social phobia is characterized by overwhelming self-consciousness and worry concerning everyday social situations. Social anxiety disorders usually stem from the feeling of thinking others are judging or ridiculing you.

PTSD

PTSD is an acronym for post-traumatic stress disorder, and derives from traumatic events, such as being in war. Symptoms of PTSD include difficulty relaxing, unsettling dreams, and flashbacks of the traumatic event.

General Anxiety Disorder

General anxiety disorder refers to the excessive feeling of worry for little to no reason.

Medication Triggered Anxiety

Medication triggered anxiety stems from side effects or withdrawal from prescribed medication or illegal drugs.

Separation Anxiety

Separation anxiety is usually a feeling experienced by a child or an individual who feels scared or anxious when they are apart from a person whom they have a deep, usually dependent connection with. Separation anxiety expresses itself in the form of extreme worry because they feel something bad may happen to them or their loved ones.

OCD or Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder

OCD is an acronym for obsessive-compulsive disorder and refers to excessive and unreasonable thoughts that lead to compulsive behavior. The most common themes of OCD are related to germs and the particular arrangement of objects that usually requires ritualistic behavior to subdue the OCD.

Causes and Risk Factors for Anxiety

Causes and risk factors for anxiety disorders include:

Genetics
Drug abuse/withdrawal
Brain chemistry
Environmental stress
Medical Conditions

Diagnosing Anxiety

Identifying the root cause of an anxiety disorder may entail an array of tests that can be used to pinpoint the underlying issue. If your medical doctor rules out physical conditions, a psychologist or psychiatrist will be recommended to help you resolve the ailment.

Treating Anxiety

There are several methods of treatment that can help you gain control over your anxiety. Some of these methods include:

Anxiety Medication – A doctor may prescribe medications, such as antidepressants, benzodiazepines, or beta-blockers depending on your needs and preferences.
Anxiety Psychotherapy – Psychotherapy refers to counseling that is used to help patients understand and deal with their emotions in a healthy manner. A common form of psychotherapy is cognitive behavioral therapy, which encourages patients to find the positive is seemingly negative situations through education from a mental health specialist.
Exercise – Exercise (i.e., running) can help people dealing with anxiety, overcome the mental hurdle by forcing them out of their mind and redirecting that energy physically.

Why Choose Saint Sophie’s Psychiatric Center?

If you or someone you know is suffering from an anxiety disorder and need help, consider visiting the professionals at Saint Sophie’s Psychiatric Center. Our philosophy of care is patient-centered around you and your loved one. We wish to help you improve your quality of life through understanding and compassion, based on sound scientific treatment.

Saint Sophie’s Psychiatric Center is, “The Right Place for You When Times Are Difficult.”

Anxiety Disorders Treatment

Saint Sophie's Psychiatric Center

Fargo, North Dakota