Panic disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, agoraphobia and social anxiety disorder are just some of the different types of anxiety disorders that affect millions of adult Americans every year. Anxiety disorders are recognized by having strong emotions of fear or panic and excessive worrying about possible negative events.

WebMD.com declares that anxiety disorder is a serious mental health illness. People suffering from it often show excessive fear, worry, or irrational behavior in response to everyday situations. Recognizing the different types of anxiety disorder can help the person cope better with the effect and the situation that may be causing the problem.

1. Obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD). This disorder is associated with obsessive rituals and behaviors that help the person reduce feelings of fear or anxiety when they’re performed. The person typically designs their own routine to help reduce a certain type of fear. For example, someone who fears germs and disease may constantly wash their hands. Someone who fears that things will be out of control may constantly arrange and rearrange furniture or objects in the home.

2. Social anxiety disorder. This disorder is characterized by extreme self-consciousness. They are anxious about being in social situations because they fear being judged, shamed and denied by others. In some cases, sufferers try to avoid being in public altogether.

3. Generalized anxiety disorder. GAD is the most common anxiety problem afflicting adult Americans. Someone suffering from GAD experiences unnecessary fear and anxiety towards normal events and circumstances. If not treated, this type of anxiety disorder can ruin a person’s quality of life.

4. Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). A traumatic event usually triggers the appearance of this disorder. Post-traumatic stress disorder, or PTSD, may interfere in the everyday life of a person as he or she may experience nightmares or constant recollection of the event. Other stressful situations may serve to remind the sufferer of the traumatic experience and trigger intense fear and anxiety.

5. Agoraphobia and other phobias. Agoraphobia is an intense fear of having a panic attack in a public situation that could cause severe embarrassment. Other phobias related to anxiety disorders are often experienced by those who have been diagnosed with panic disorder and other disorders, and are rooted in feelings of being ashamed or judged about their problem.  The “anxiety about anxiety” is a hallmark trait of these types of phobias. Another common anxiety problem that falls in this category is the fear of driving.

The above stated anxiety and panic disorders are just some of the most common anxiety issues millions of people around the world are dealing with. Identifying the type of anxiety problem is the first step towards treatment, and there are several effective treatments available.

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