Anxiety is the body’s response to an event that is experienced as disturbing or threatening. Research indicates that anxiety disorders are the leading emotional health disorder for women, and second only to substance abuse for men. It is estimated that 15% of the population suffers from anxiety. Fortunately, treatment is available and generally effective.
An anxiety disorder lasts longer than normal anxiety, is more intense, and can lead to fears that interfere with daily life. The main kinds include:
Panic attacks which are extreme episodes of anxiety which seem to occur even when there is no real danger. Symptoms include dizziness, heart pounding, hot and cold flashes, sweating, feelings of choking, feelings of depersonalization or being detached from yourself, fear of losing control, going crazy or dying.
Phobias are excessive and persistent fears of specific objects, situations or activities. A specific phobia might be a fear of flying, heights, animals, needles, blood, insects, elevators, tunnels, going over bridges, etc.
Social phobia , also called social anxiety, is a fear of a social or performance situation such as public speaking, performing, meeting people, dating, initiating or maintaining conversations etc.
Agoraphobia is a fear of being in a place or situation in which escape may be difficult or embarrassing such as planes, trains, movies, restaurants, concert halls. If severe, the person may be fearful of leaving their home or may be able to leave only with a trusted companion and to go to a familiar place.
Obsessive-compulsive disorder may include obsessions or compulsions or both. Obsessions are upsetting and irrational thoughts that don’t stop. Although they are recognized as inappropriate, they cannot be controlled with reasoning or reassurance. To reduce the obsessions, people engage in compuslve behaviors such as repeated hand washing or repeated checking to make sure a door is locked or an appliance is unplugged.
Posttraumatic stress disorder occurs in an individual who has experienced or witnessed a life-threatening event such as being in combat, an assault or a rape. The person may have recurring nightmares, flashbacks in which the event seems to be happening again and intense fear and helplessness.
Generalized anxiety includes symptoms of excessive anxiety, worry and tension which interferes with a person’s daily functioning. The individual feels helpless to control the worries and may have trouble sleeping, concentration and has constant muscle tension.
If you are experiencing anxiety and would like help, please contact Dr. Denny at 714-832-6454 .