An Anxiety Attack Can Be a Part of Several Anxiety Disorders
Everybody experiences anxiety. What makes a difference is that anxiety disorders take over and cause problems with normal daily functioning. An anxiety attack is usually the result of an untreated disorder. Anxiety is real and affects more than 40 million adults. What are the different types of anxiety disorders? They are generalized anxiety disorder or GAD, social phobia or SP, panic disorder, obsessive compulsive disorder or OCD, and post traumatic stress disorder or PTSD. There are medications, therapies, and solutions to help all these disorders.
GAD tends to be more prevalent with people who have suffered from anxiety for at least six months. An anxiety attack occurs often and physical problems start showing up. These may include muscle pain or tension, insomnia or incomplete sleep, stomach issues, being jittery, and frequent tiredness. Jobs or education may be at risk. Daily functioning is taken over by fears.
SP occurs when a person has a fear of going out into society. They feel as if there are inconveniencing others with their presence. Panic disorder is characterized as being a high level of anxiety which shows up with physical duress. Panic attacks come out of nowhere, leaving the person with fear of more attacks.
OCD is when a person is fixed on a thought which they cannot let go. Obsessions are about continual fears. Compulsive activity is about the tendency to repeat behaviors. Obsessions and compulsive behaviors join, resulting in a ritualistic disorder. Repeating the rituals brings comfort. An anxiety attack occurs when OCD is not treated and the components are being tested.
PTSD is anxiety after a traumatic event. Post war, assault, accidents and disasters can all result in PTSD. When it causes problems is often after the fact of a trauma when life is settling down. It is very challenging to treat because of the deep emotional wounds.
It is possible for treatment of all the mentioned disorders. Freedom from an anxiety attack is a motivating factor. When given a choice it is always preferred to overcome anxiety disorders. The first focus of treatment will be a thorough physical. Next is psychiatric assessment. Medications may be prescribed as needed. Some disorders may require long term medication treatment.
Others will be treated with short term medication intervention. Counseling, such as cognitive and reality based therapies will be used as well. Support from family members is helpful, if not vital. Support groups and organizations are available to help people with anxiety disorders.
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