Information on Anxiety

Types of Anxiety

Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) – Constant, severe anxiety that interferes with day-to-day activities.
Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) – Unreasonable thoughts, fears and obsessions that lead you to repetitive behaviors or compulsions.
Panic disorder – Characterized by frequent sudden attacks of terror, panic and constant fearfulness.
Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) – A condition that’s triggered by experiencing or witnessing a terrifying event.
Social anxiety disorder (SAD) – When everyday interactions cause irrational anxiety, fear, self-consciousness and embarrassment.

Signs and symptoms

Feeling nervous, restless or tense
Having a sense of impending danger, panic or doom
Having an increased heart rate
Breathing rapidly (hyperventilation)
Sweating
Trembling
Feeling weak or tired
Trouble concentrating or thinking about anything other than the present worry
Having trouble sleeping
Experiencing gastrointestinal (GI) problems
Having difficulty controlling worry
Having the urge to avoid things that trigger anxiety

Prevention

Get help early
Stay active
Avoid alcohol or drug use
Keep physically active
Quit smoking and cut back or quit drinking caffeinated beverages
Use stress management and relaxation techniques
Make sleep a priority
Eat healthy