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5 Types of Anxiety Disorders

5 Types of Anxiety Disorders

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Anxiety Disorders—Here’s What You Should Know

Fear and anxiety are natural human emotions. Despite how uncomfortable they may feel, they can be helpful however, by alerting a person to  potential harm or danger. Some level of fear and anxiety is normal and not all feelings of anxiety point to a disorder. But excessive, ongoing and irrational fear and anxiety can have negative consequences on a person’s well-being  by interfering with everyday functioning and ultimately decreasing a person’s  quality of life. 

Anxiety disorders are some of the most common mental disorders. They affect almost 30% of adults at one point or another throughout their lifetime. The good news is these are treatable conditions. They can be addressed through various treatment methods, medication or a combination. If managed properly, diagnosed individuals can improve their quality of life. 

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Types of Anxiety Disorders

Please keep in mind this is not a comprehensive list of all types of anxiety disorders. We have shortlisted five recognized forms and physical symptoms of anxiety disorders. 

1. Generalized Anxiety Disorder or GAD

GAD is characterized by excessive and persistent worry that is often difficult to control.  A hallmark symptom of GAD is a persistent feeling of dread. This can make it difficult, or even impossible, to function in everyday life. This is not the same as the passing worry or anxiety that’s felt in stressful situations, which dissipates once the source of stress is gone. 

Those with GAD can feel recurring, overwhelming anxiety for a prolonged period. For some, it’s for months but for others it’s years. Typical symptoms of GAD include:

  • General restlessness
  • Feeling exhausted and irritable
  • Having difficulty concentrating
  • Muscle tension 
  • Uncontrollable worry or anxiety
  • Sleep problems, such as difficulty falling or staying asleep

2. Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder or OCD

There is a misconception that OCD is the need for high-level order and cleanliness. In fact OCD is characterized by recurrent intrusive thoughts, images or urges (obsessions) that can cause anxiety or distress and the subsequent compulsion a person feels to perform repetitive acts they feel need to be applied to the situation to achieve a sense of completeness. 

People with OCD typically experience:

  • Obsessions: recurring thoughts, mental images or urges. Oftentimes these symptoms can be disturbing in nature and are unwanted, causing a person anxiety or distress. Typically a person tries to ignore the symptoms by another thought or performing an action. Compulsions: repetitive behaviors or mentals acts, which are aimed at preventing or reducing anxiety or distress.  Oftentimes, a person feels compelled to complete repetitive behaviors in response to an obsession. Some examples are hand washing, praying or repeating words.

Please know that not all habits or rituals are compulsions. There are instances when it’s rational to feel the need to repeat certain actions. The obsessions and compulsions felt by a person with OCD are uncontrollable and excessive, which is where the difference lies. The symptoms a person incurs can take up a significant amount of their time and interfere with daily life. They don’t feel any pleasure from feeling compelled to do certain things but instead may briefly feel relieved from anxiety. 

3. Panic Attacks and Panic Disorder

Panic attacks are characterized by discrete episodes of intense fear that begin abruptly and last for several minutes to an hour. Panic disorder is characterized by a person experiencing recurrent untriggered panic attacks. Many psychiatric disorders can present with panic attacks; however, experiencing a rare panic attack does not mean you have a mood disorder. 

The common symptoms of a panic attack include but are not limited to: 

  • Elevated heart rate
  • Sweating
  • Chest pain
  • Trembling
  • Feeling doomed or out of control

Those with panic disorders often work with a medical professional todetermine what triggers their episodes and how to avoid future panic attacks. Oftentimes this is accomplished by avoiding certain places, behaviors or situations which are likely to be triggering and potentially anxiety producing.

4. Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder or PTSD

PTSD can occur in  individuals who experience a traumatic event. This may include but is not limited to sexual assault, domestic violence, combat, physical injuries, medical illness and childhood trauma.

It can be natural to feel fear during or after a traumatic situation. As mentioned, fear and anxiety might be helpful in situations where there is perceived danger as they may trigger the “fight or flight” response, which is meant to protect a person from harm. PTSD though, is much more severe.

woman anxiously crying

PTSD symptoms can often present as:

Re-experiencing symptoms: a person can  re-live the event through frightening thoughts, flashbacks and dreams. Words, things or circumstances that remind them of the event can be triggers. 

  • Avoidance symptoms: a person may go  out of their way to avoid reminders of the event. Examples of these may include avoiding places or suppressing thoughts related to the event. 
  • Arousal/reactivity symptoms: a person may find themself on edge, stressed or angry. They may have difficulty doing everyday tasks like eating, sleeping or focusing. These symptoms include being jumpy, having difficulty falling/staying asleep or feeling tense. 
  • Cognition and mood symptoms: a person may feel detached or alienated from loved ones. They may have difficulty recalling details about the traumatic event. They might experience negative thoughts about themselves or others, have distorted feelings of blame or guilt or lose interest in hobbies. 

It’s natural to experience short-term symptoms after going through a traumatic experience but most people recover over time. For those who experience symptoms that interfere with their ability to function, a consultation with a medical professional might be beneficial.

5. Social Anxiety Disorder or Social Phobia

Social anxiety or social phobia may present as an excessive and overwhelming self-consciousness and anxiety in everyday social circumstances. It can involve a fear of being watched or judged by other people. This may be limited to a specific situation, like drinking or eating in front of others. Sometimes,  in the severest form, it can impede a person from interacting with others.

Signs of social anxiety disorder may include but are not limited to:

  • Trembling or sweating.
  • Elevated heart rate.
  • Stomachache.
  • Body tension.
  • Difficulty making or maintaining eye contact.
  • Difficulty being around strangers.
  • Fear of people watching or judging them.

women socializing

It’s natural to feel nervous in certain situations, particularly ones that are new. But social anxiety disorders are recurring and excessive  to the point that symptoms may disrupt an individual’s relationships and interfere with their ability to function. 

Causes of Anxiety Disorders

PTSD can be a result of  traumatic experiences or events. Research indicates that genetics and environmental factors may  increase a person’s likelihood of developing other anxiety disorders. General risks may include feeling distressed or nervous in new situations during childhood, a history of anxiety disorders and other mental disorders in biological relatives, and exposure to stressful or negative environments. 

Certain health conditions may  aggravate anxiety disorders. Caffeine and other substances can have an impact, too.

Types of Anxiety Medicines

Healthcare providers may prescribe various medications to manage anxiety disorders. Common types of anxiety medicines include antidepressants, anti-anxiety medication or beta-blockers.

Other types of treatment can also help to manage anxiety. These can include various forms of cognitive behavioral therapy or CBT. CBT  empowers individuals to be their own “therapist.” It teaches healthy coping mechanisms and different ways of thinking and takes place with a counselor or therapist. CBT may include psychotherapy (or “talk therapy”) or  exposure therapy, depending on what your provider thinks is the best plan.

Often it can be confusing as to who can prescribe medication in a treatment setting.  Psychiatrists and primary mental health nurse practitioners are medical experts  who  diagnose and treat mental and emotional conditions, which may include prescribing medication. A therapist or counselor cannot prescribe medication but you may benefit from their services just as much. 

If you want more information on anxiety and how to  begin your journey of mental and emotional wellness with, check out the services offered by Cerebral. 

Take our free online anxiety test to see if you could benefit from anxiety treatment.

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In OCD, these obsessions often revolve around specific themes that are persistent and difficult to control Common OCD obsessions include the following: Fear of contamination or germs Unwanted forbidden or taboo thoughts involving sex, religion, or harm Aggressive thoughts toward others or self Having things symmetrical or in perfect order These obsessions can dominate the person's thoughts, leading to significant distress and interfering with daily activities. Common compulsions in OCD Compulsions are repetitive behaviors or mental acts that a person feels driven to perform in response to an obsession. These actions are meant to reduce the distress associated with obsessions or to prevent a feared event, but they often  only provide temporary relief. Common OCD compulsions include the following: Excessive cleaning or hand washing Ordering and arranging things in a particular, precise way Repeatedly checking on things, such as ensuring the door is locked, or the oven is off Compulsive counting Compulsions can take up significant time and interfere with daily functioning, often causing distress and frustration. What is anxiety? Anxiety is a natural response to stress, but when it becomes persistent and overwhelming, it can develop into an anxiety disorder. Symptoms of anxiety can range from mild worry to debilitating fear and panic. Anxiety disorders are characterized by excessive fear or worry that impacts daily activities and encompass a wide range of conditions, including generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), panic disorder, and social anxiety disorder. People with anxiety disorders often experience persistent, uncontrollable worry about various aspects of life, such as work, relationships, and health. This constant state of alertness can even lead to physical symptoms of anxiety that can significantly impact one's quality of life. Common symptoms of anxiety Anxiety can manifest in various ways, affecting both the mind and body. Most commonly, people with anxiety-related disorders will experience the following: Excessive worrying Feeling agitated or restless Fatigue Difficulty concentrating Irritability Tense muscles Trouble sleeping These symptoms can significantly impact daily life, making it challenging to perform everyday tasks and enjoy normal activities. Key differences between OCD and anxiety While OCD and anxiety disorders share some similarities, there are key differences in behaviors, thought patterns, and the focus of thoughts that can help in telling the two types of disorders apart. Behaviors Behaviors associated with these conditions can greatly interfere with day-to-day functioning and are often key indicators of the underlying disorder. Here’s how the two differ in behaviors:  OCD: Involves repetitive or ritualistic behaviors or mental acts (compulsions) performed to reduce the distress caused by obsessions. Anxiety: Involves behaviors aimed at avoiding anxiety-provoking situations or events, such as avoidance of social gatherings or excessive preparation for events. Thought patterns Thought patterns are a critical component in distinguishing between OCD and anxiety disorders. These are the major differences for both: OCD: Characterized by intrusive, unwanted thoughts that the person recognizes as irrational but cannot control. Anxiety: Involves persistent worrying about future events or everyday situations, which, while often exaggerated, are more rooted in reality compared to the intrusive thoughts in OCD. Focus of thoughts Understanding where thoughts are centered can help in identifying a specific disorder. This is how the two conditions differ in this area: OCD: Thoughts are often centered around specific themes like contamination, harm, or symmetry. Anxiety: Thoughts can be generalized and involve worrying about a wide range of everyday issues, such as work, health, and relationships. Recognizing differences can aid in distinguishing between OCD and anxiety disorders, which can help lead to more personalized and targeted treatment options. Is OCD a type of anxiety? OCD was previously considered an anxiety-related disorder because it involves significant anxiety and distress caused by obsessions and compulsions. However, OCD has been reclassified as an obsessive-compulsive and related disorder in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) as of late. This reclassification reflects the distinct nature of the obsessions and compulsions in OCD, which distinguish it from other anxiety disorders. How to tell if I have OCD or anxiety Because OCD and anxiety disorders can have overlapping symptoms, it will take a mental health professional to make a clinical diagnosis. However, you can educate yourself on the main differences between the two to gain more clarity before talking with a mental health professional. Let’s take one last look at the symptoms of both to help differentiate between the two. OCD symptoms Intrusive, unwanted thoughts or images (obsessions) Repetitive behaviors or mental acts (compulsions) performed to reduce distress Significant time spent on obsessions and compulsions, interfering with daily life Recognizing that obsessions and compulsions are excessive or unreasonable Anxiety symptoms Excessive, uncontrollable worry about various aspects of life Physical symptoms such as increased heart rate, sweating, and trembling Avoidance of anxiety-provoking situations Difficulty concentrating and sleeping Persistent feelings of restlessness or being on edge How are OCD and anxiety diagnosed? Diagnosing OCD and anxiety disorders involves a comprehensive evaluation by a mental health professional. This typically includes: Clinical interview: To discuss your symptoms, medical history, and impact on daily life. Questionnaires: To assess the severity of symptoms using standardized clinical tools. Observation: To note behaviors and physical signs of anxiety or compulsions. Diagnostic criteria: To make a diagnosis using criteria from the DSM-5. A thorough clinical evaluation and diagnosis inform a personalized treatment plan.  Can you have both OCD and anxiety? Yes, it is possible to have both OCD and an anxiety disorder, and co-occurrence of these conditions can be relatively common. While having one can increase the risk of developing the other; the likelihood of developing both is greater for those with OCD because of the condition’s severity. When both conditions are present, treatment plans should address OCD and anxiety symptoms to ensure comprehensive care. Why that matters: The presence of one condition can exacerbate the symptoms of the other, creating a complex interplay that can be challenging to manage, especially without ongoing professional help. What other conditions could it be? Several other conditions can present with symptoms similar to OCD and anxiety disorders but also have distinct treatment options. This makes a clinical evaluation or talking with a licensed professional all that more important. Conditions that could look like OCD or anxiety include: Depressive disorders: Persistent low mood, loss of interest in activities, feelings of hopelessness, and changes in appetite and sleep patterns. Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD): Symptoms like difficulty concentrating, restlessness, and impulsivity can resemble anxiety and OCD, especially when the individual engages in repetitive behaviors or experiences significant worry and distractibility. Phobias: Intense fear of specific objects or situations that result in avoidance behavior. Body dysmorphic disorder (BDD): Obsessive focus on perceived flaws in appearance, leading to repetitive behaviors, such as mirror checking, and significant distress. Undergo an evaluation with a licensed professional to discuss personalized treatment for your specific condition. Are the treatments different? Not always. There are similarities in treating OCD and anxiety disorders. Medication Medication is a common treatment option for both OCD and anxiety disorders, often helping to manage and alleviate symptoms. For both conditions, medications are often combined with therapy and other interventions. Therapy A therapist can provide non-medication strategies and support in managing symptoms for either condition. By learning essential tools and techniques, therapy fosters hope for long-term recovery and resilience for people with OCD as well as for those who have anxiety-related conditions. Coping strategies Techniques such as mindfulness, relaxation exercises, deep breathing, and stress management may be particularly helpful. Lifestyle changes like regular exercise, balanced eating, and sufficient sleep also may help. By incorporating healthy coping strategies into your daily life, you are on the road to improving your mental health. How Cerebral can help If you are experiencing symptoms of OCD or an anxiety-related disorder, seeking help from a mental health professional is essential to getting the care you need. Online mental health services like Cerebral offer a convenient and accessible way to receive support for OCD and anxiety disorders. Cerebral provides: Therapy: Access online sessions with licensed therapists. Medication management: Consult with credentialed prescribers virtually to see if an online prescription and managing medication is appropriate for you. Educational resources: Explore articles, in-app exercises, and free mental health resources to help understand and manage symptoms. Services like Cerebral can be particularly beneficial for those who have difficulty accessing traditional in-person care due to geographical, logistical, or personal reasons. Our team of experienced mental health professionals is here to explore personalized care and support if appropriate for you.  Do I have anxiety? Only a mental health professional can determine the answer to that question by conducting a clinical evaluation for an anxiety disorder. But, you can take a free 3-minute self-assessment to get a better sense of the level of your anxiety symptoms.  Images by freepik, freepik, and master1035 on Freepik. *The information in this blog is provided as a general educational resource only, and is not to be used or relied on for any diagnostic or treatment purpose. This information should not be used as a substitute for professional diagnosis and treatment and does not create any patient-physician relationship between you and Cerebral. Please consult your health care provider before making any health care decisions or to get guidance about a specific medical condition.
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