Anxiety is a normal emotion, it’s our brain’s way of reacting to stress and alerting us when we are in danger. However, when regular, and excessive anxiety and fear overwhelm us to the point where it interferes with our ability to cope with everyday tasks, this could be considered as an anxiety disorder. Anxiety disorders are the most common mental health disorder.
There are several types of anxiety disorders, characterized not only by distressing & persistent anxiety but often by the dysfunctional behaviours that reduce that anxiety. Examples of Anxiety Disorders are:
General Anxiety Disorder: Having regular or uncontrollable worries about many different things in your everyday life. Typically, these symptoms would be present for at least six months.
Social Anxiety Disorder :
Extreme anxiety triggered by any social situation. This includes workplaces, interactions, and parties.
Panic Disorders :
Having regular panic attacks without a clear trigger.
Phobias :
An excessive fear or anxiety triggered by a particular situation or object.
Anxiety feels different for everyone. Some might experience physical effects on their body whilst others might experience anxiety which affects their minds.
The brain and body are closely interrelated such that feelings of fear and anxiety trigger the hypothalamus in the brain to stimulate the release of hormones in our bodies which, in turn produces the ‘fight-or-flight’ response, the physical symptoms.
Though this is not an exhaustive list, these are common symptoms/experiences you may have:
Psychological symptoms:
Anxiety can feel like a spotlight in your mind shining on your deepest fears or worries at all times.
Physical symptoms:
