Anxiety Disorders
A category of conditions sharing features of excessive fear or anxiety and related behavioral disturbances.
Overview
Anxiety disorders are a group of conditions, including generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder, and social anxiety disorder, that share features of excessive fear, anxiety, or avoidance behavior that is out of proportion to actual risk.
Signs and Symptoms
Symptoms can include excessive worry, restlessness, muscle tension, sleep disturbance, rapid heartbeat, and avoidance of anxiety-provoking situations. Specific symptoms vary by the particular anxiety disorder. Experiencing one or more of these symptoms does not necessarily mean that a person has this condition. Diagnosis requires an appropriate clinical evaluation.
Causes and Risk Factors
The exact cause is not fully understood. Genetic factors, brain chemistry, temperament, and stressful or traumatic life events are each associated with increased risk of anxiety disorders.
Diagnosis
A diagnosis should be made by a qualified healthcare professional following a comprehensive clinical assessment. Clinicians may use established diagnostic frameworks such as DSM-5-TR and/or ICD-11 as part of a comprehensive assessment.
Treatment
Treatment depends on the individual’s symptoms, clinical history, severity, age, co-occurring conditions, and other relevant factors.
Psychotherapy
Cognitive behavioral therapy, including exposure-based techniques, has strong evidence supporting its use across anxiety disorders.
Medication
Certain antidepressant and other medications are FDA-approved for various anxiety disorders and may be recommended depending on the specific diagnosis and severity. Medication decisions should be made with a qualified prescribing healthcare professional. Do not start, stop, or change a prescribed medication based solely on information on this page.
Living With Anxiety Disorders
Regular physical activity, stress management techniques, consistent sleep, and limiting caffeine can help support symptom management.
When to Seek Professional Help
Professional evaluation may be appropriate if symptoms persist, worsen, cause significant distress, or interfere with work, school, or relationships.
Emergency Situations
If a person may be in immediate danger, is experiencing a medical or psychiatric emergency, or may harm themselves or another person, seek immediate assistance through appropriate local emergency services.
Outlook
Anxiety disorders are among the most treatable mental health conditions, and many people experience significant improvement with appropriate care.
Medical Information Disclaimer
Ratel Health provides general educational information and does not provide medical diagnosis, treatment, or individualized medical advice. Information on this page is not a substitute for evaluation or care from a qualified healthcare professional. Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or another person, or to start, stop, or change treatment or medication without consulting an appropriately qualified healthcare professional.
References
- American Psychiatric Association. Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition, Text Revision (DSM-5-TR).
- National Institute of Mental Health.
- U.S. Food and Drug Administration.
- World Health Organization. International Classification of Diseases, 11th Revision.