Understanding Anxiety Disorders: Symptoms, Types & Treatment

Anxiety disorder affects a growing number of people. They range in severity, from mild to severe. Experts continue to study the condition to find ways to help those suffering from it.

Frequency

• The Surgeon General reports that anxiety disorders are the most common mental disorders.

Numerous Forms

• There are several kinds of anxiety disorders, such as panic disorder, agoraphobia, generalized anxiety disorder, specific phobia, social phobia, obsessive-compulsive disorder and post-traumatic stress disorder.

Treatments

• The American Association of Family Physicians reports that treatment for significant anxiety disorders include prescription medications and psychotherapy.

Physical Health Issues

• Patients suffering from severe anxiety disorders have a higher frequency of medical appointments and diagnostic testing and consider their health to be poor. There are also physical symptoms of anxiety disorder including fatigue and insomnia.

Genetics

• According to the Cleveland Clinic, one 20-year study shows a genetic connection for anxiety disorders. Children who had depressed parents are three times more likely to have anxiety disorders and are more likely to be substance abusers.