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Mental Health 101: Understanding Anxiety Disorders

Mental health disorders such as depression and anxiety, appear to be taking a foothold in our society. It is estimated that around 275 million people suffer from anxiety disorders, and anxiety disorders are the most common mental illness in the USA.

Anxiety is a normal emotion. It is your brain’s way of reacting to stress and alerts the body that there is a possibility of danger ahead. However, an anxiety disorder is a type of mental health condition that can cause debilitating feelings of panic, irrational fear and nervousness.

Spread Mental Health Awareness :

Spreading mental health awareness is essential in breaking down stigma and fostering understanding within communities. By openly discussing mental health challenges, individuals can feel empowered to seek support and access resources for their well-being. Education on the signs and symptoms of mental illness can enable early intervention and treatment, ultimately reducing the burden of untreated conditions. Through initiatives like public campaigns, educational programs, and community events, we can create environments that promote empathy, acceptance, and support for those facing mental health struggles. Together, we can build a culture where mental health is recognized as a fundamental aspect of overall wellness, deserving of attention, compassion, and advocacy.

Types of Anxiety Disorders :

There are several different kinds of anxiety disorders but the five major types are:

1. Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) :

GAD is characterized by a persistent feeling of anxiety or dread, which interferes with daily life.

2. Panic Disorder
Panic Disorder involves frequent and unexpected panic attacks characterized by periods of intense fear, discomfort, or a sense of losing control.

3. Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)

People with OCD experience recurrent, unwanted thoughts (obsessions) and/or repetitive behaviors (compulsions).

4. Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

PTSD is an anxiety disorder that develops from witnessing or experiencing a terrifying event. Experiences like the unexpected death of a loved one can also cause PTSD.

5. Social Phobia (or Social Anxiety Disorder)

Characterized by overwhelming anxiety and excessive self-consciousness in social situations, intense, Social Anxiety Disorder involves persistent fear of being watched and judged by others.

Treatment For Anxiety Disorders :

The good news is that anxiety disorders are highly treatable. Symptoms, especially physical manifestations such as tremors and rapid heart rate, can be drastically improved with the correct medications. However, it is important to seek medical advice from a healthcare professional in order to receive a correct diagnosis.

Acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) :

This acceptance-based behavior therapy focuses on emphasizing acceptance as a way of dealing with negative thoughts, feelings, symptoms, or circumstances. It teaches you to recognize and change your thoughts, reducing or eliminating negative emotions and unhealthy behaviors. ACT is an innovative method of dealing with anxiety, and is associated with a better quality of life for those dealing with anxiety disorders.

Key Points in ACT :

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) emphasizes several fundamental principles to support individuals in effectively managing psychological challenges and leading more fulfilling lives:

Recovery852 assists individuals and families struggling with addiction and other mental health issues like anxiety and depression. We offer Motivational Interviewing (MI), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), 12-step Facilitation Therapy, Person-Centered Therapy and Wellness Coaching. If you or someone you know is suffering from anxiety or depression, contact us today.