Anxiety Disorders

Possible Symptoms:

Psychological

• worry
• flashbacks
• fear of losing control
• fear of going crazy
• fear of dying

Physical

• trembling
• sweating inappropriately
• heart pounding
• dizziness
• shortness of breath
• light-headedness
• muscle soreness
• numbness/tingling
• stomach problems

It is normal to feel the worry or tension of a fearful or threatening situation. What can be abnormal is to experience excessive worry, tension, or fear in situations where there would normally be no reason for these feelings. When these feelings interfere with normal daily activities or relationships then one is said to have an anxiety disorder. People who suffer from anxiety disorders should receive some treatment.

Many of these people realize that something is wrong with their feelings. They may describe themselves as going crazy or loosing their minds. This is not a weakness of character or a personality problem. These anxiety disorders are common, may present in varying degrees of severity and can be treated if identified.

Anxiety disorders affect some people all the time and others only under specific circumstances. Extreme symptoms can result in a panic attack. We all experience panic at some time. It is a natural defense against danger. When this happens for no apparent reason it is a very unpleasant feeling. Chemicals in our brains control the panic response. If these chemicals are released at the wrong time a panic attack may occur. Anxiety and panic attacks can be treated they are not a sign of weakness.

Answer the following questionsto see if you or a loved one may be suffering from an anxiety disorder.

Questions

Do you...

Feel tense or upset?

or

Worry a lot?