What Are the Different Types of Anxiety Disorders and How Do I Know Which One I Have?
Anxiety is a natural stress response that has served to keep humans alive by alerting one to potential danger in an adverse environment or circumstance. A minimal amount of anxiety is normal – however, if you find that your daily life, social life, work-life, and/or relationships are stunted by your anxiety, then you may be dealing with an anxiety disorder.
There are a variety of anxiety disorders, and many people who seek professional treatment are able to manage these feelings of stress. Let’s talk about some of the most common types of anxiety disorders so that you can identify them within yourself and others, and where you can go in Atlanta and Alpharetta for professional help that works to tamp down your anxiety.
Types of Anxiety Disorders
- Generalized anxiety disorder is characterized by feeling an excess of anxiety for little to no reason.
- Separation anxiety is the experience of feeling fear or stress when you part physically with someone close to you. You might feel intense worry regarding the safety of yourself or your loved one.
- Panic disorder is when one feels intense fear, leading to a panic attack. A panic attack can be accompanied by chest pain, sweating, and a racing heart.
- Social anxiety disorder is also known as social phobia. This anxiety disorder is when someone feels extreme self-consciousness and a high level of stress in social situations. There is typically a fear of embarrassment and/or judgment from others.
- Phobias are specific to an object, circumstance, type of person, or event. For example, one could have a phobia of vomiting, which is known as
- Substance-/medication-induced anxiety disorder is characterized by symptoms of anxiety that are due to either legal or illegal drug use.
- Performance anxiety is the fear of being able to complete a certain task, typically in front of someone or in collaboration with someone or a group of people.
- Selective mutism is seen in children (and also some adults) who communicate normally with their families but don’t speak to others at school or outside of the home.
Symptoms of Clinical Anxiety
Common signs of an anxiety disorder include:
- Racing heart
- Sweating
- Social unease
- Fear and panic
- Excessive worry about safety
- Sleep problems
- Flushing face
- Shortness of breath
- Dry mouth
- Hyperventilation
- Inability to concentrate
- Tension in the muscles
Risk Factors for Anxiety Disorders
- Trauma
- Negative life events
- Sexual abuse
- History of mental illness
- Chronic health conditions
- Low self-worth/self-esteem
- Shyness
- Substance abuse
- Abusive relationships
How Can I Find Relief from My Anxiety?
If you experience any of these symptoms in excess and/or have any of the abovementioned risk factors, a mental health professional can help you figure out specifics as well as how to treat the anxiety. Here at Atlanta Specialized Care, our professionals are approachable, understanding, and nonjudgmental, so we will help you define your issue and work with you to determine the right approach to keep your anxiety under control.
If you have any questions or would like to schedule a consultation with one of our counselors, contact us today at (678) 679-6959 or fill out our appointment request form online now – there is no obligation at all. We look forward to hearing from you.
