Anxiety is a common mental health condition that affects millions of people worldwide. While it’s normal to feel anxious in certain situations, for some, anxiety can become overwhelming and interfere with daily life. In fact, anxiety is a common reason to see a psychiatry provider. Anxiety disorders are a group of mental health conditions characterized by excessive fear, worry, and physical symptoms such as increased heart rate and restlessness.
1. Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD)
People with Generalized Anxiety Disorder experience excessive, uncontrollable worry about various aspects of life, such as work, health, or social situations. The worry is persistent and can feel overwhelming, even when there’s no immediate danger.
Symptoms of GAD:
- Restlessness or feeling on edge
- Fatigue
- Difficulty concentrating
- Irritability
- Muscle tension
- Sleep disturbances
2. Social Anxiety Disorder (Social Phobia)
Social Anxiety Disorder, also known as Social Phobia, involves an intense fear of being judged, embarrassed, or rejected in social situations. This fear can lead to avoidance of social activities, which impacts relationships and daily functioning.
Symptoms of Social Anxiety Disorder:
- Intense fear of social situations
- Avoiding interactions
- Sweating, trembling, or blushing in social settings
- Difficulty speaking in front of others
3. Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD):
Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder is characterized by intrusive, unwanted thoughts (obsessions) and repetitive behaviors (compulsions) performed to reduce anxiety. While everyone has occasional intrusive thoughts, people with OCD experience significant distress and feel driven to perform rituals repeatedly.
Symptoms of OCD:
- Fear of contamination
- Excessive checking (locks, appliances, etc.)
- Repetitive cleaning or handwashing
- Counting, ordering, or repeating actions
4. Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
PTSD can develop after experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event. Individuals with PTSD may experience flashbacks, nightmares, and severe anxiety, often feeling as though they are reliving the event.
Symptoms of PTSD:
- Flashbacks or intrusive memories
- Nightmares
- Avoidance of reminders of the trauma
- Hypervigilance or exaggerated startle response
- Emotional numbness or detachment
5. Panic Disorder
Panic Disorder is marked by recurring and unexpected panic attacks—sudden periods of intense fear or discomfort. Panic attacks are often accompanied by physical symptoms, such as a racing heart, chest pain, or shortness of breath.
Symptoms of Panic Disorder:
- Sudden, overwhelming fear
- Heart palpitations or chest pain
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
- Feeling of choking or difficulty breathing
- Fear of losing control or “going crazy”
Anxiety Treatment in Pasadena, Ontario, and Southern California
If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, know that treatment for anxiety disorders is available and highly effective. A combination of cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), medication, and lifestyle changes can help manage anxiety symptoms and improve quality of life.
If you’re looking for professional help with anxiety treatment in Pasadena, Ontario, or other parts of Southern California, Restore Psychiatry & Wellness offers virtual care for your convenience. Our team of compassionate professionals is dedicated to supporting your mental health journey.
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Don’t let anxiety take control. Contact us or schedule an appointment today to begin your path to wellness.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for educational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.