5 Major Types of Anxiety Disorders

Did I say too much? Am I being too loud? I shouldn't have said that, what will they think about me? 

This is a typical thought cycle of someone that lives with an anxiety disorder. It is a condition that is characterised by irrational thoughts and worries over situations that may not warrant it. The symptoms may be mild to severe. For instance, someone suffering from mild social anxiety may be nervous before meeting new people. Someone with severe social anxiety may not even be able to leave their house because of the anxiety they experience while meeting new people. 

Social anxiety is just one type of anxiety disorder. There are several types of anxiety disorders, each with its own set of symptoms. The most 5 common types of anxiety disorders are:

• Generalised Anxiety Disorder (GAD) 

• Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)

• Social Anxiety Disorder (SAD)

• Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

• Panic Disorder 

Generalised Anxiety Disorder (GAD)

Generalised Anxiety Disorder (GAD) is the most common anxiety disorder. It is characterised by excessive worrying and fear about everyday events or activities. People with GAD often have a hard time controlling their worry, and they may experience symptoms such as fatigue, irritability, muscle tension, and difficulty concentrating.

GAD is also one of the most common conditions in the world. Various studies have shown that this condition affects approximately 4% of the entire global population, which is almost 320 million people. The treatment of this condition can be done through both therapy and psychiatric support. Therapy can help in coping with the emotional and mental symptoms of this condition, whereas psychiatric support can be vital for managing the day-to-day generalized anxiety disorder symptoms. 

How to Cope With Generalised Anxiety Disorder (GAD)?

Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)

Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is a type of anxiety disorder that causes sufferers to experience intrusive thoughts, or obsessions, and to compulsively engage in rituals or behaviours, or compulsions, in an attempt to alleviate the anxiety caused by the obsessions.

OCD can be debilitating and can significantly reduce the quality of life. Treatments for this condition can be a little complex, but there are a number of therapies available that can help to reduce OCD symptoms. A psychiatrist can also help by providing proper medication and support for the condition. 

How Do I Know if My OCD Is Severe?

Panic Disorder

Panic disorder is a type of anxiety disorder that causes people to experience sudden and intense feelings of fear and terror. These feelings can lead to a number of physical symptoms of panic disorder, such as chest pain, shortness of breath, dizziness, and nausea. These panic attacks may appear all of a sudden, without warning. 

People with panic disorder often worry about when the next panic attack will occur and spend a lot of time trying to avoid situations that they believe might trigger one. Panic disorder can be very debilitating, preventing people from leading normal lives.

Can Anxiety Affect Your Health?

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

Post-traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a type of anxiety disorder that can develop after experiencing a traumatic event. Symptoms of PTSD include flashbacks, nightmares, and intrusive thoughts about the event. This is a very complex disorder, and it is quite common for people with PTSD to turn to substances as a way to cope—leading to addiction. 

PTSD can be very debilitating and can interfere with daily life. Treatment for PTSD typically includes therapy, support groups and medication. Some new treatment methods such as EMDR have shown a lot of promise in treating this condition. 

Social Anxiety Disorder (SAD)

Social Anxiety Disorder is a type of anxiety disorder that can make it difficult to interact with other people. This condition can cause you to feel extremely anxious and self-conscious in social situations. You may constantly worry about embarrassing yourself or being judged in social situations.

It is not a condition which should be taken lightly—over 7% of all adults throughout the world cope with an anxiety disorder. Fortunately, there are many effective treatments for anxiety disorders, including medication, therapy, and self-care strategies. With the right treatment and help from a therapist or a psychiatrist most people with anxiety disorders can lead fulfilling, happy lives.