🕷️ Crawler Inspector

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Direct Parameter Lookup

Raw Queries and Responses

1. Shard Calculation

Query:

Response:

Calculated Shard: 102 (from laksa195)

2. Crawled Status Check

Query:

curl -X POST \
  'http://laksa102.int.ahrefs:8124/' \
  -H 'Content-Type: text/plain' \
  -H 'X-ClickHouse-Database: crawler3' \
  -H 'Authorization: Basic YXBpOg==' \
  -d 'SELECT getAhrefsURLFromUnparsed(src_unparsed) AS found_url, ifNull(toUnixTimestamp(download_stamp), 0) AS crawl_time, ifNull(toUnixTimestamp(props_url_first_seen), 0) AS first_indexed_time, download_http_code AS http_code, src_unparsed AS src_unparsed, src_root_hash AS src_root_hash, history_drop_reason AS history_drop_reason, meta_title AS meta_title, meta_descriptions AS meta_descriptions, attrs_boilerpipe_text AS attrs_boilerpipe_text, attrs_markdown AS attrs_markdown, attrs_readable_markdown AS attrs_readable_markdown, meta_canonical AS meta_canonical FROM crawler3.page_info_local FINAL PREWHERE (src_root_hash, src_unparsed) IN ((getAhrefsRootHashFromUnparsed(getAhrefsUnparsedNoserviceFromURL(\'https://www.psychiatry.org/patients-families/anxiety-disorders/what-are-anxiety-disorders\')), getAhrefsUnparsedNoserviceFromURL(\'https://www.psychiatry.org/patients-families/anxiety-disorders/what-are-anxiety-disorders\'))) FORMAT JSONEachRow'

Response:

{"found_url":"https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/patients-families\/anxiety-disorders\/what-are-anxiety-disorders","crawl_time":1776736197,"first_indexed_time":1460464045,"http_code":200,"src_unparsed":"org,psychiatry!www,\/patients-families\/anxiety-disorders\/what-are-anxiety-disorders s443","src_root_hash":"3208705627035071702","history_drop_reason":null,"meta_title":"Psychiatry.org - What are Anxiety Disorders?","meta_descriptions":["Anxiety disorders are the most common of mental disorders and affect more than 25 million Americans."],"attrs_boilerpipe_text":"ver en español\nAnxiety is a normal reaction to stress. Mild levels of anxiety can be beneficial in some situations. It can alert us to dangers and help us prepare and pay attention. Anxiety disorders differ from normal feelings of nervousness or anxiousness and involve excessive fear or anxiety. Anxiety disorders are the most common of mental disorders. They affect nearly 30% of adults at some point in their lives. However, anxiety disorders are treatable with a number of psychotherapeutic treatments. Treatment helps most people lead normal productive lives.\nAnxiety refers to anticipation of a future concern and is more associated with muscle tension and avoidance behavior.\nFear is an emotional response to an immediate threat and is more associated with a fight or flight reaction – either staying to fight or leaving to escape danger.\nAnxiety disorders can cause people to try to avoid situations that trigger or worsen their symptoms. Job performance, schoolwork and personal relationships can be affected. In general, for a person to be diagnosed with an anxiety disorder, the fear or anxiety must:\nBe out of proportion to the situation or be age-inappropriate\nHinder their ability to function normally\nThere are several types of anxiety disorders: generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder with or without agoraphobia, specific phobias, agoraphobia, social anxiety disorder, separation anxiety disorder and selective mutism.\nTypes of Anxiety Disorders\nGeneralized Anxiety Disorder\nGeneralized anxiety disorder involves persistent and excessive worry that interferes with daily activities. This ongoing worry and tension may be accompanied by physical symptoms, such as restlessness, feeling on edge or easily fatigued, difficulty concentrating, muscle tension or problems sleeping. Often the worries focus on everyday things such as job responsibilities, family health or minor matters such as chores, car repairs, or appointments.\nPanic Disorder\nThe core symptom of panic disorder is recurrent panic attacks, an overwhelming combination of physical and psychological distress. During an attack, several of these symptoms occur in combination:\nPanic Disorder Symptoms\nDuring an attack, several of these symptoms occur in combination\nPalpitations, pounding heart or rapid heart rate\nNumbness or tingling\nSweating\nChills or hot flashes\nTrembling or shaking\nNausea or abdominal pains\nFeeling of shortness of breath or smothering sensations\nFeeling detached\nChest pain\nFear of losing control\nFeeling dizzy, light-headed or faint\nFear of dying\nFeeling of choking\n \nBecause the symptoms can be quite severe, some people who experience a panic attack may believe they are having a heart attack or some other life-threatening illness. They may go to a hospital emergency department. Panic attacks may be expected, such as a response to a feared object, or unexpected, apparently occurring for no reason. The mean age for onset of panic disorder is 20-24. Panic attacks may occur with other mental disorders such as depression or PTSD.\nPhobias, Specific Phobia\nA specific phobia is excessive and persistent fear of a specific object, situation or activity that is generally not harmful. Patients know their fear is excessive, but they can't overcome it. These fears cause such distress that some people go to extreme lengths to avoid what they fear. Examples are public speaking, fear of flying or fear of spiders.\nAgoraphobia\nAgoraphobia is the fear of being in situations where escape may be difficult or embarrassing, or help might not be available in the event of panic symptoms. The fear is out of proportion to the actual situation and lasts generally six months or more and causes problems in functioning. A person with agoraphobia experiences this fear in two or more of the following situations:\nUsing public transportation\nBeing in open spaces\nBeing in enclosed places\nStanding in line or being in a crowd\nBeing outside the home alone\nThe individual actively avoids the situation, requires a companion or endures with intense fear or anxiety. Untreated agoraphobia can become so serious that a person may be unable to leave the house. A person can only be diagnosed with agoraphobia if the fear is intensely upsetting, or if it significantly interferes with normal daily activities.\nSocial Anxiety Disorder (previously called social phobia)\nA person with social anxiety disorder has significant anxiety and discomfort about being embarrassed, humiliated, rejected or looked down on in social interactions. People with this disorder will try to avoid the situation or endure it with great anxiety. Common examples are extreme fear of public speaking, meeting new people or eating\/drinking in public. The fear or anxiety causes problems with daily functioning and lasts at least six months.\nSeparation Anxiety Disorder\nA person with separation anxiety disorder is excessively fearful or anxious about separation from those with whom he or she is attached. The feeling is beyond what is appropriate for the person's age, persists (at least four weeks in children and six months in adults) and causes problems functioning. A person with separation anxiety disorder may be persistently worried about losing the person closest to him or her, may be reluctant or refuse to go out or sleep away from home or without that person, or may experience nightmares about separation. Physical symptoms of distress often develop in childhood, but symptoms can carry though adulthood.\nSelective Mutism\nChildren with selective mutism do not speak in some social situations where they are expected to speak, such as school, even though they speak in other situations. They will speak in their home around immediate family members, but often will not speak even in front of others, such as close friends or grandparents.\nThe lack of speech may interfere with social communication, although children with this disorder sometimes use non-spoken or nonverbal means (e.g., grunting, pointing, writing). The lack of speech can also have significant consequences in school, leading to academic problems and social isolation. Many children with selective mutism also experience excessive shyness, fear of social embarrassment and high social anxiety. However, they typically have normal language skills.\nSelective mutism usually begins before age 5, but it may not be formally identified until the child enters school. Many children will outgrow selective mutism. For children who also have social anxiety disorder, selective mutism may disappear, but symptoms of social anxiety disorder may remain.\nRisk Factors\nThe causes of anxiety disorders are currently unknown but likely involve a combination of factors including genetic, environmental, psychological and developmental. Anxiety disorders can run in families, suggesting that a combination of genes and environmental stresses can produce the disorders.\nDiagnosis, Treatment and Self-Help\nThe first step is to see your doctor to make sure there is no physical problem causing the symptoms. If an anxiety disorder is diagnosed, a mental health professional can work with you on finding the best treatment. Unfortunately, many people with anxiety disorders don't seek help. They don't realize that they have a condition for which there are effective treatments.\nAlthough each anxiety disorder has unique characteristics, most respond well to two types of treatment:\npsychotherapy\nor \"talk therapy,\" and\nmedications\n. These treatments can be given alone or in combination. Cognitive behavior therapy (CBT), a type of talk therapy, can help a person learn a different way of thinking, reacting and behaving to help feel less anxious. Medications will not cure anxiety disorders, but can provide significant relief from symptoms. The most commonly used medications are anti-anxiety medications (generally prescribed only for a short period of time) and antidepressants. Beta-blockers, used for heart conditions, are sometimes used to control physical symptoms of anxiety.\nThere are a number of things people do to help cope with symptoms of anxiety disorders and make treatment more effective. Stress management techniques and meditation can be helpful. Support groups (in-person or online) can provide an opportunity to share experiences and coping strategies. Learning more about the specifics of a disorder and helping family and friends to understand the condition better can also be helpful. Avoid caffeine, which can worsen symptoms, and check with your doctor about any medications.\nRelated Conditions\nPosttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD)\nAcute stress disorder\nObsessive-compulsive disorder\nAdjustment disorder\nPhysician Review\nPhilip R. Muskin, M.D., M.A.\nJune 2023\nReference\n*American Psychiatric Association. Anxiety Disorders. In:\nDiagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders. 5th ed. Text Revision\n. American Psychiatric Association; 2022: pp. 215-231.","attrs_markdown":"[Skip to content](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/patients-families\/anxiety-disorders\/what-are-anxiety-disorders#main)\n\n[Advocacy Action Center for Members: Federal Policy Updates. 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[Resources for DB\/SA Leadership](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/membership\/district-branches\/district-branch-resources)\n    - [District Branch Dues for General Members](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/membership\/district-branches\/district-branch-dues-for-general-members)\n    \n    - [District Branch Dues for Residents and Fellows](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/membership\/district-branches\/district-branch-dues-for-residents-and-fellows)\n# What are Anxiety Disorders?\n- ## You are here:\n- [Patients and Families](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/patients-families)\n- [Anxiety Disorders](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/patients-families\/anxiety-disorders)\n- What are Anxiety Disorders?\n\n- Share\n- Print\n\nSub Navigation\n\n- ## [Anxiety Disorders](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/patients-families\/anxiety-disorders)\n  Toggle Anxiety Disorders Page Listing\n  - [What are Anxiety Disorders?](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/patients-families\/anxiety-disorders\/what-are-anxiety-disorders)\n  - [Expert Q\\&A: Anxiety Disorders](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/patients-families\/anxiety-disorders\/expert-q-and-a)\n## On This Page\n\n[ver en español](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/patients-families\/anxiety-disorders\/what-are-anxiety-disorders)\n\nAnxiety is a normal reaction to stress. Mild levels of anxiety can be beneficial in some situations. It can alert us to dangers and help us prepare and pay attention. Anxiety disorders differ from normal feelings of nervousness or anxiousness and involve excessive fear or anxiety. Anxiety disorders are the most common of mental disorders. They affect nearly 30% of adults at some point in their lives. However, anxiety disorders are treatable with a number of psychotherapeutic treatments. Treatment helps most people lead normal productive lives.\n\nAnxiety refers to anticipation of a future concern and is more associated with muscle tension and avoidance behavior.\n\nFear is an emotional response to an immediate threat and is more associated with a fight or flight reaction – either staying to fight or leaving to escape danger.\n\nAnxiety disorders can cause people to try to avoid situations that trigger or worsen their symptoms. Job performance, schoolwork and personal relationships can be affected. In general, for a person to be diagnosed with an anxiety disorder, the fear or anxiety must:\n\n- Be out of proportion to the situation or be age-inappropriate\n- Hinder their ability to function normally\n\nThere are several types of anxiety disorders: generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder with or without agoraphobia, specific phobias, agoraphobia, social anxiety disorder, separation anxiety disorder and selective mutism.\n\n## **Types of Anxiety Disorders**\n### Generalized Anxiety Disorder\nGeneralized anxiety disorder involves persistent and excessive worry that interferes with daily activities. This ongoing worry and tension may be accompanied by physical symptoms, such as restlessness, feeling on edge or easily fatigued, difficulty concentrating, muscle tension or problems sleeping. Often the worries focus on everyday things such as job responsibilities, family health or minor matters such as chores, car repairs, or appointments.\n\n### Panic Disorder\nThe core symptom of panic disorder is recurrent panic attacks, an overwhelming combination of physical and psychological distress. During an attack, several of these symptoms occur in combination:\n\n| Panic Disorder Symptoms During an attack, several of these symptoms occur in combination |   |\n|---|---|\n| Palpitations, pounding heart or rapid heart rate | Numbness or tingling |\n| Sweating | Chills or hot flashes |\n| Trembling or shaking | Nausea or abdominal pains |\n| Feeling of shortness of breath or smothering sensations | Feeling detached |\n| Chest pain | Fear of losing control |\n| Feeling dizzy, light-headed or faint | Fear of dying |\n| Feeling of choking |   |\n\nBecause the symptoms can be quite severe, some people who experience a panic attack may believe they are having a heart attack or some other life-threatening illness. They may go to a hospital emergency department. Panic attacks may be expected, such as a response to a feared object, or unexpected, apparently occurring for no reason. The mean age for onset of panic disorder is 20-24. Panic attacks may occur with other mental disorders such as depression or PTSD.\n\n## How Common Are Anxiety Disorders?\nIn any given year the estimated percent of U.S. adults with various anxiety disorders are\\*:\n\n- Specific Phobia: 8% - 12% (U.S.)\n- Social Anxiety Disorder: 7% (U.S.)\n- Panic Disorder: 2% - 3% (U.S.)\n- Agoraphobia: 1-1.7% (adolescents and adults; worldwide)\n- Generalized Anxiety Disorder: 0.9% (adolescents)' 2.9% (adults)\n- Separation Anxiety Disorder: 4% (children); 1.6% (adolescents); 0.9%-1.9% (adults)\n- Selective mutism: 0.03-1.9% (U.S., Europe, Israel)\n\nWomen are more likely than men to experience anxiety disorders.\n### Phobias, Specific Phobia\nA specific phobia is excessive and persistent fear of a specific object, situation or activity that is generally not harmful. Patients know their fear is excessive, but they can't overcome it. These fears cause such distress that some people go to extreme lengths to avoid what they fear. Examples are public speaking, fear of flying or fear of spiders.\n\n### Agoraphobia\nAgoraphobia is the fear of being in situations where escape may be difficult or embarrassing, or help might not be available in the event of panic symptoms. The fear is out of proportion to the actual situation and lasts generally six months or more and causes problems in functioning. A person with agoraphobia experiences this fear in two or more of the following situations:\n\n- Using public transportation\n- Being in open spaces\n- Being in enclosed places\n- Standing in line or being in a crowd\n- Being outside the home alone\n\nThe individual actively avoids the situation, requires a companion or endures with intense fear or anxiety. Untreated agoraphobia can become so serious that a person may be unable to leave the house. A person can only be diagnosed with agoraphobia if the fear is intensely upsetting, or if it significantly interferes with normal daily activities.\n\n### Social Anxiety Disorder (previously called social phobia)\nA person with social anxiety disorder has significant anxiety and discomfort about being embarrassed, humiliated, rejected or looked down on in social interactions. People with this disorder will try to avoid the situation or endure it with great anxiety. Common examples are extreme fear of public speaking, meeting new people or eating\/drinking in public. The fear or anxiety causes problems with daily functioning and lasts at least six months.\n\n### Separation Anxiety Disorder\nA person with separation anxiety disorder is excessively fearful or anxious about separation from those with whom he or she is attached. The feeling is beyond what is appropriate for the person's age, persists (at least four weeks in children and six months in adults) and causes problems functioning. A person with separation anxiety disorder may be persistently worried about losing the person closest to him or her, may be reluctant or refuse to go out or sleep away from home or without that person, or may experience nightmares about separation. Physical symptoms of distress often develop in childhood, but symptoms can carry though adulthood.\n\n### Selective Mutism\nChildren with selective mutism do not speak in some social situations where they are expected to speak, such as school, even though they speak in other situations. They will speak in their home around immediate family members, but often will not speak even in front of others, such as close friends or grandparents.\n\nThe lack of speech may interfere with social communication, although children with this disorder sometimes use non-spoken or nonverbal means (e.g., grunting, pointing, writing). The lack of speech can also have significant consequences in school, leading to academic problems and social isolation. Many children with selective mutism also experience excessive shyness, fear of social embarrassment and high social anxiety. However, they typically have normal language skills.\n\nSelective mutism usually begins before age 5, but it may not be formally identified until the child enters school. Many children will outgrow selective mutism. For children who also have social anxiety disorder, selective mutism may disappear, but symptoms of social anxiety disorder may remain.\n\n## **Risk Factors**\nThe causes of anxiety disorders are currently unknown but likely involve a combination of factors including genetic, environmental, psychological and developmental. Anxiety disorders can run in families, suggesting that a combination of genes and environmental stresses can produce the disorders.\n\n## **Diagnosis, Treatment and Self-Help**\n![Anxiety Disorders: Parents Medication Guide, American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and American Psychiatric Association](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/getmedia\/2547337e-8146-4180-8485-79eac8b4fe35\/PMG-Anxiety-disorders.png)\n\n[Anxiety Parent's Medication Guide (.pdf)](https:\/\/www.aacap.org\/App_Themes\/AACAP\/docs\/resource_centers\/resources\/med_guides\/anxiety-parents-medication-guide.pdf)\n\nThe first step is to see your doctor to make sure there is no physical problem causing the symptoms. If an anxiety disorder is diagnosed, a mental health professional can work with you on finding the best treatment. Unfortunately, many people with anxiety disorders don't seek help. They don't realize that they have a condition for which there are effective treatments.\n\nAlthough each anxiety disorder has unique characteristics, most respond well to two types of treatment: [psychotherapy](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/patients-families\/psychotherapy) or \"talk therapy,\" and [medications](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/Patients-Families\/Psychiatric-Medications-An-Overview-1). These treatments can be given alone or in combination. Cognitive behavior therapy (CBT), a type of talk therapy, can help a person learn a different way of thinking, reacting and behaving to help feel less anxious. Medications will not cure anxiety disorders, but can provide significant relief from symptoms. The most commonly used medications are anti-anxiety medications (generally prescribed only for a short period of time) and antidepressants. Beta-blockers, used for heart conditions, are sometimes used to control physical symptoms of anxiety.\n\nThere are a number of things people do to help cope with symptoms of anxiety disorders and make treatment more effective. Stress management techniques and meditation can be helpful. Support groups (in-person or online) can provide an opportunity to share experiences and coping strategies. Learning more about the specifics of a disorder and helping family and friends to understand the condition better can also be helpful. Avoid caffeine, which can worsen symptoms, and check with your doctor about any medications.\n\n## **Related Conditions**\n- [Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD)](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/patients-families\/ptsd\/what-is-ptsd)\n- [Acute stress disorder](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/patients-families\/ptsd\/what-is-ptsd)\n- [Obsessive-compulsive disorder](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/patients-families\/ocd\/what-is-obsessive-compulsive-disorder)\n- [Adjustment disorder](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/patients-families\/ptsd\/what-is-ptsd)\n## Physician Review\nPhilip R. Muskin, M.D., M.A.  \n June 2023\n\n## Reference\n\\*American Psychiatric Association. Anxiety Disorders. In: *Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders. 5th ed. Text Revision*. American Psychiatric Association; 2022: pp. 215-231.\n\n## Learn More\n- Other resources\n  \n  ### From ADAA\n  ![Anxiety and Depression Association of America; Patients Gudie to mood and anxiety disorders](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/getmedia\/7af90568-b577-436a-985a-b3dd0084d609\/Patients-guide-to-mood-and-anxiety.jpg)\n  \n  **Patients Guide to Mood and Anxiety Disorders**  \n   From the Anxiety and Depression Association of America\n  \n  Edited by Charles B. Nemeroff, M.D., Ph.D., and W. 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[**Depression**](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/patients-families\/depression)\n- [What Is Depression?](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/patients-families\/depression\/what-is-depression)\n- [Expert Q\\&A: Depression](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/patients-families\/depression\/expert-q-and-a)\n\n- Back\n- [**Disruptive, Impulse-Control and Conduct Disorders**](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/patients-families\/disruptive-impulse-control-and-conduct-disorders)\n- [What are Disruptive, Impulse Control and Conduct Disorders?](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/patients-families\/disruptive-impulse-control-and-conduct-disorders\/what-are-disruptive-impulse-control-and-conduct)\n- [Expert Q\\&A: Disruptive, Impulse Control and Conduct Disorders](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/patients-families\/disruptive-impulse-control-and-conduct-disorders\/expert-q-and-a)\n\n- Back\n- [**Dissociative Disorders**](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/patients-families\/dissociative-disorders)\n- [What Are Dissociative 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(PTSD)**](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/patients-families\/ptsd)\n- [What is Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)?](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/patients-families\/ptsd\/what-is-ptsd)\n- [Expert Q\\&A: Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/patients-families\/ptsd\/expert-q-and-a)\n\n- Back\n- [**Schizophrenia**](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/patients-families\/schizophrenia)\n- [What is Schizophrenia?](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/patients-families\/schizophrenia\/what-is-schizophrenia)\n- [Expert Q\\&A: Schizophrenia](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/patients-families\/schizophrenia\/expert-q-and-a)\n\n- Back\n- [**Sleep Disorders**](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/patients-families\/sleep-disorders)\n- [What are Sleep Disorders?](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/patients-families\/sleep-disorders\/what-are-sleep-disorders)\n- [Expert Q\\&A: Sleep Disorders](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/patients-families\/sleep-disorders\/expert-q-and-a)\n\n- Back\n- [**Somatic Symptom Disorder**](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/patients-families\/somatic-symptom-disorder)\n- [What is Somatic Symptom Disorder?](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/patients-families\/somatic-symptom-disorder\/what-is-somatic-symptom-disorder)\n- [Expert Q\\&A: Somatic Symptom Disorder](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/patients-families\/somatic-symptom-disorder\/expert-q-and-a)\n\n- Back\n- [**Specific Learning Disorders**](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/patients-families\/specific-learning-disorder)\n- [What Are Specific Learning Disorders?](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/patients-families\/specific-learning-disorder\/what-is-specific-learning-disorder)\n- [Expert Q\\&A: Specific Learning Disorders](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/patients-families\/specific-learning-disorder\/expert-q-and-a)\n\n- Back\n- [**Technology Addictions: Social Media, Online Gaming, and More**](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/patients-families\/technology-addictions-social-media-and-more)\n- [What is 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[Minority and Underrepresented (M\/UR) Caucuses](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/psychiatrists\/cultural-competency\/mur-caucuses)\n- [Research Colloquium](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/psychiatrists\/research\/research-colloquium-for-junior-psychiatrist-invest)\n- [APA Communities](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/membership\/get-involved\/apa-communities)\n\n- Back\n- [**Directories, Contact Info & FAQs**](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/membership\/contacts-and-frequently-asked-questions)\n- [Contact the Membership Department](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/membership\/contacts-and-frequently-asked-questions\/contact-your-membership-specialist)\n- [Contact Your District Branch](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/about-apa\/Meet-Our-Organization\/district-branches)\n- [Membership FAQs](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/membership\/contacts-and-frequently-asked-questions\/faqs)\n- [Semi-Retired and Retired 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Members](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/membership\/district-branches\/district-branch-dues-for-general-members)\n- [District Branch Dues for Residents and Fellows](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/membership\/district-branches\/district-branch-dues-for-residents-and-fellows)","attrs_readable_markdown":"[ver en español](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/patients-families\/anxiety-disorders\/what-are-anxiety-disorders)\n\nAnxiety is a normal reaction to stress. Mild levels of anxiety can be beneficial in some situations. It can alert us to dangers and help us prepare and pay attention. Anxiety disorders differ from normal feelings of nervousness or anxiousness and involve excessive fear or anxiety. Anxiety disorders are the most common of mental disorders. They affect nearly 30% of adults at some point in their lives. However, anxiety disorders are treatable with a number of psychotherapeutic treatments. Treatment helps most people lead normal productive lives.\n\nAnxiety refers to anticipation of a future concern and is more associated with muscle tension and avoidance behavior.\n\nFear is an emotional response to an immediate threat and is more associated with a fight or flight reaction – either staying to fight or leaving to escape danger.\n\nAnxiety disorders can cause people to try to avoid situations that trigger or worsen their symptoms. Job performance, schoolwork and personal relationships can be affected. In general, for a person to be diagnosed with an anxiety disorder, the fear or anxiety must:\n\n- Be out of proportion to the situation or be age-inappropriate\n- Hinder their ability to function normally\n\nThere are several types of anxiety disorders: generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder with or without agoraphobia, specific phobias, agoraphobia, social anxiety disorder, separation anxiety disorder and selective mutism.\n\n**Types of Anxiety Disorders**\n\n### Generalized Anxiety Disorder\nGeneralized anxiety disorder involves persistent and excessive worry that interferes with daily activities. This ongoing worry and tension may be accompanied by physical symptoms, such as restlessness, feeling on edge or easily fatigued, difficulty concentrating, muscle tension or problems sleeping. Often the worries focus on everyday things such as job responsibilities, family health or minor matters such as chores, car repairs, or appointments.\n\n### Panic Disorder\nThe core symptom of panic disorder is recurrent panic attacks, an overwhelming combination of physical and psychological distress. During an attack, several of these symptoms occur in combination:\n\n| Panic Disorder Symptoms During an attack, several of these symptoms occur in combination |   |\n|---|---|\n| Palpitations, pounding heart or rapid heart rate | Numbness or tingling |\n| Sweating | Chills or hot flashes |\n| Trembling or shaking | Nausea or abdominal pains |\n| Feeling of shortness of breath or smothering sensations | Feeling detached |\n| Chest pain | Fear of losing control |\n| Feeling dizzy, light-headed or faint | Fear of dying |\n| Feeling of choking |   |\n\nBecause the symptoms can be quite severe, some people who experience a panic attack may believe they are having a heart attack or some other life-threatening illness. They may go to a hospital emergency department. Panic attacks may be expected, such as a response to a feared object, or unexpected, apparently occurring for no reason. The mean age for onset of panic disorder is 20-24. Panic attacks may occur with other mental disorders such as depression or PTSD.\n\n### Phobias, Specific Phobia\nA specific phobia is excessive and persistent fear of a specific object, situation or activity that is generally not harmful. Patients know their fear is excessive, but they can't overcome it. These fears cause such distress that some people go to extreme lengths to avoid what they fear. Examples are public speaking, fear of flying or fear of spiders.\n\n### Agoraphobia\nAgoraphobia is the fear of being in situations where escape may be difficult or embarrassing, or help might not be available in the event of panic symptoms. The fear is out of proportion to the actual situation and lasts generally six months or more and causes problems in functioning. A person with agoraphobia experiences this fear in two or more of the following situations:\n\n- Using public transportation\n- Being in open spaces\n- Being in enclosed places\n- Standing in line or being in a crowd\n- Being outside the home alone\n\nThe individual actively avoids the situation, requires a companion or endures with intense fear or anxiety. Untreated agoraphobia can become so serious that a person may be unable to leave the house. A person can only be diagnosed with agoraphobia if the fear is intensely upsetting, or if it significantly interferes with normal daily activities.\n\n### Social Anxiety Disorder (previously called social phobia)\nA person with social anxiety disorder has significant anxiety and discomfort about being embarrassed, humiliated, rejected or looked down on in social interactions. People with this disorder will try to avoid the situation or endure it with great anxiety. Common examples are extreme fear of public speaking, meeting new people or eating\/drinking in public. The fear or anxiety causes problems with daily functioning and lasts at least six months.\n\n### Separation Anxiety Disorder\nA person with separation anxiety disorder is excessively fearful or anxious about separation from those with whom he or she is attached. The feeling is beyond what is appropriate for the person's age, persists (at least four weeks in children and six months in adults) and causes problems functioning. A person with separation anxiety disorder may be persistently worried about losing the person closest to him or her, may be reluctant or refuse to go out or sleep away from home or without that person, or may experience nightmares about separation. Physical symptoms of distress often develop in childhood, but symptoms can carry though adulthood.\n\n### Selective Mutism\nChildren with selective mutism do not speak in some social situations where they are expected to speak, such as school, even though they speak in other situations. They will speak in their home around immediate family members, but often will not speak even in front of others, such as close friends or grandparents.\n\nThe lack of speech may interfere with social communication, although children with this disorder sometimes use non-spoken or nonverbal means (e.g., grunting, pointing, writing). The lack of speech can also have significant consequences in school, leading to academic problems and social isolation. Many children with selective mutism also experience excessive shyness, fear of social embarrassment and high social anxiety. However, they typically have normal language skills.\n\nSelective mutism usually begins before age 5, but it may not be formally identified until the child enters school. Many children will outgrow selective mutism. For children who also have social anxiety disorder, selective mutism may disappear, but symptoms of social anxiety disorder may remain.\n\n**Risk Factors**\n\nThe causes of anxiety disorders are currently unknown but likely involve a combination of factors including genetic, environmental, psychological and developmental. Anxiety disorders can run in families, suggesting that a combination of genes and environmental stresses can produce the disorders.\n\n**Diagnosis, Treatment and Self-Help**\n\nThe first step is to see your doctor to make sure there is no physical problem causing the symptoms. If an anxiety disorder is diagnosed, a mental health professional can work with you on finding the best treatment. Unfortunately, many people with anxiety disorders don't seek help. They don't realize that they have a condition for which there are effective treatments.\n\nAlthough each anxiety disorder has unique characteristics, most respond well to two types of treatment: [psychotherapy](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/patients-families\/psychotherapy) or \"talk therapy,\" and [medications](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/Patients-Families\/Psychiatric-Medications-An-Overview-1). These treatments can be given alone or in combination. Cognitive behavior therapy (CBT), a type of talk therapy, can help a person learn a different way of thinking, reacting and behaving to help feel less anxious. Medications will not cure anxiety disorders, but can provide significant relief from symptoms. The most commonly used medications are anti-anxiety medications (generally prescribed only for a short period of time) and antidepressants. Beta-blockers, used for heart conditions, are sometimes used to control physical symptoms of anxiety.\n\nThere are a number of things people do to help cope with symptoms of anxiety disorders and make treatment more effective. Stress management techniques and meditation can be helpful. Support groups (in-person or online) can provide an opportunity to share experiences and coping strategies. Learning more about the specifics of a disorder and helping family and friends to understand the condition better can also be helpful. Avoid caffeine, which can worsen symptoms, and check with your doctor about any medications.\n\n**Related Conditions**\n\n- [Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD)](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/patients-families\/ptsd\/what-is-ptsd)\n- [Acute stress disorder](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/patients-families\/ptsd\/what-is-ptsd)\n- [Obsessive-compulsive disorder](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/patients-families\/ocd\/what-is-obsessive-compulsive-disorder)\n- [Adjustment disorder](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/patients-families\/ptsd\/what-is-ptsd)\n## Physician Review\nPhilip R. Muskin, M.D., M.A.  \n June 2023\n\n## Reference\n\\*American Psychiatric Association. Anxiety Disorders. In: *Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders. 5th ed. Text Revision*. American Psychiatric Association; 2022: pp. 215-231.","meta_canonical":null}

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Boilerpipe Text	ver en español Anxiety is a normal reaction to stress. Mild levels of anxiety can be beneficial in some situations. It can alert us to dangers and help us prepare and pay attention. Anxiety disorders differ from normal feelings of nervousness or anxiousness and involve excessive fear or anxiety. Anxiety disorders are the most common of mental disorders. They affect nearly 30% of adults at some point in their lives. However, anxiety disorders are treatable with a number of psychotherapeutic treatments. Treatment helps most people lead normal productive lives. Anxiety refers to anticipation of a future concern and is more associated with muscle tension and avoidance behavior. Fear is an emotional response to an immediate threat and is more associated with a fight or flight reaction – either staying to fight or leaving to escape danger. Anxiety disorders can cause people to try to avoid situations that trigger or worsen their symptoms. Job performance, schoolwork and personal relationships can be affected. In general, for a person to be diagnosed with an anxiety disorder, the fear or anxiety must: Be out of proportion to the situation or be age-inappropriate Hinder their ability to function normally There are several types of anxiety disorders: generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder with or without agoraphobia, specific phobias, agoraphobia, social anxiety disorder, separation anxiety disorder and selective mutism. Types of Anxiety Disorders Generalized Anxiety Disorder Generalized anxiety disorder involves persistent and excessive worry that interferes with daily activities. This ongoing worry and tension may be accompanied by physical symptoms, such as restlessness, feeling on edge or easily fatigued, difficulty concentrating, muscle tension or problems sleeping. Often the worries focus on everyday things such as job responsibilities, family health or minor matters such as chores, car repairs, or appointments. Panic Disorder The core symptom of panic disorder is recurrent panic attacks, an overwhelming combination of physical and psychological distress. During an attack, several of these symptoms occur in combination: Panic Disorder Symptoms During an attack, several of these symptoms occur in combination Palpitations, pounding heart or rapid heart rate Numbness or tingling Sweating Chills or hot flashes Trembling or shaking Nausea or abdominal pains Feeling of shortness of breath or smothering sensations Feeling detached Chest pain Fear of losing control Feeling dizzy, light-headed or faint Fear of dying Feeling of choking Because the symptoms can be quite severe, some people who experience a panic attack may believe they are having a heart attack or some other life-threatening illness. They may go to a hospital emergency department. Panic attacks may be expected, such as a response to a feared object, or unexpected, apparently occurring for no reason. The mean age for onset of panic disorder is 20-24. Panic attacks may occur with other mental disorders such as depression or PTSD. Phobias, Specific Phobia A specific phobia is excessive and persistent fear of a specific object, situation or activity that is generally not harmful. Patients know their fear is excessive, but they can't overcome it. These fears cause such distress that some people go to extreme lengths to avoid what they fear. Examples are public speaking, fear of flying or fear of spiders. Agoraphobia Agoraphobia is the fear of being in situations where escape may be difficult or embarrassing, or help might not be available in the event of panic symptoms. The fear is out of proportion to the actual situation and lasts generally six months or more and causes problems in functioning. A person with agoraphobia experiences this fear in two or more of the following situations: Using public transportation Being in open spaces Being in enclosed places Standing in line or being in a crowd Being outside the home alone The individual actively avoids the situation, requires a companion or endures with intense fear or anxiety. Untreated agoraphobia can become so serious that a person may be unable to leave the house. A person can only be diagnosed with agoraphobia if the fear is intensely upsetting, or if it significantly interferes with normal daily activities. Social Anxiety Disorder (previously called social phobia) A person with social anxiety disorder has significant anxiety and discomfort about being embarrassed, humiliated, rejected or looked down on in social interactions. People with this disorder will try to avoid the situation or endure it with great anxiety. Common examples are extreme fear of public speaking, meeting new people or eating/drinking in public. The fear or anxiety causes problems with daily functioning and lasts at least six months. Separation Anxiety Disorder A person with separation anxiety disorder is excessively fearful or anxious about separation from those with whom he or she is attached. The feeling is beyond what is appropriate for the person's age, persists (at least four weeks in children and six months in adults) and causes problems functioning. A person with separation anxiety disorder may be persistently worried about losing the person closest to him or her, may be reluctant or refuse to go out or sleep away from home or without that person, or may experience nightmares about separation. Physical symptoms of distress often develop in childhood, but symptoms can carry though adulthood. Selective Mutism Children with selective mutism do not speak in some social situations where they are expected to speak, such as school, even though they speak in other situations. They will speak in their home around immediate family members, but often will not speak even in front of others, such as close friends or grandparents. The lack of speech may interfere with social communication, although children with this disorder sometimes use non-spoken or nonverbal means (e.g., grunting, pointing, writing). The lack of speech can also have significant consequences in school, leading to academic problems and social isolation. Many children with selective mutism also experience excessive shyness, fear of social embarrassment and high social anxiety. However, they typically have normal language skills. Selective mutism usually begins before age 5, but it may not be formally identified until the child enters school. Many children will outgrow selective mutism. For children who also have social anxiety disorder, selective mutism may disappear, but symptoms of social anxiety disorder may remain. Risk Factors The causes of anxiety disorders are currently unknown but likely involve a combination of factors including genetic, environmental, psychological and developmental. Anxiety disorders can run in families, suggesting that a combination of genes and environmental stresses can produce the disorders. Diagnosis, Treatment and Self-Help The first step is to see your doctor to make sure there is no physical problem causing the symptoms. If an anxiety disorder is diagnosed, a mental health professional can work with you on finding the best treatment. Unfortunately, many people with anxiety disorders don't seek help. They don't realize that they have a condition for which there are effective treatments. Although each anxiety disorder has unique characteristics, most respond well to two types of treatment: psychotherapy or "talk therapy," and medications . These treatments can be given alone or in combination. Cognitive behavior therapy (CBT), a type of talk therapy, can help a person learn a different way of thinking, reacting and behaving to help feel less anxious. Medications will not cure anxiety disorders, but can provide significant relief from symptoms. The most commonly used medications are anti-anxiety medications (generally prescribed only for a short period of time) and antidepressants. Beta-blockers, used for heart conditions, are sometimes used to control physical symptoms of anxiety. There are a number of things people do to help cope with symptoms of anxiety disorders and make treatment more effective. Stress management techniques and meditation can be helpful. Support groups (in-person or online) can provide an opportunity to share experiences and coping strategies. Learning more about the specifics of a disorder and helping family and friends to understand the condition better can also be helpful. Avoid caffeine, which can worsen symptoms, and check with your doctor about any medications. Related Conditions Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) Acute stress disorder Obsessive-compulsive disorder Adjustment disorder Physician Review Philip R. Muskin, M.D., M.A. June 2023 Reference *American Psychiatric Association. Anxiety Disorders. In: Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders. 5th ed. Text Revision . American Psychiatric Association; 2022: pp. 215-231.
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## You are here: - [Patients and Families](https://www.psychiatry.org/patients-families) - [Anxiety Disorders](https://www.psychiatry.org/patients-families/anxiety-disorders) - What are Anxiety Disorders? - Share - Print Sub Navigation - ## [Anxiety Disorders](https://www.psychiatry.org/patients-families/anxiety-disorders) Toggle Anxiety Disorders Page Listing - [What are Anxiety Disorders?](https://www.psychiatry.org/patients-families/anxiety-disorders/what-are-anxiety-disorders) - [Expert Q\&A: Anxiety Disorders](https://www.psychiatry.org/patients-families/anxiety-disorders/expert-q-and-a) ## On This Page [ver en español](https://www.psychiatry.org/patients-families/anxiety-disorders/what-are-anxiety-disorders) Anxiety is a normal reaction to stress. Mild levels of anxiety can be beneficial in some situations. It can alert us to dangers and help us prepare and pay attention. Anxiety disorders differ from normal feelings of nervousness or anxiousness and involve excessive fear or anxiety. Anxiety disorders are the most common of mental disorders. They affect nearly 30% of adults at some point in their lives. However, anxiety disorders are treatable with a number of psychotherapeutic treatments. Treatment helps most people lead normal productive lives. Anxiety refers to anticipation of a future concern and is more associated with muscle tension and avoidance behavior. Fear is an emotional response to an immediate threat and is more associated with a fight or flight reaction – either staying to fight or leaving to escape danger. Anxiety disorders can cause people to try to avoid situations that trigger or worsen their symptoms. Job performance, schoolwork and personal relationships can be affected. In general, for a person to be diagnosed with an anxiety disorder, the fear or anxiety must: - Be out of proportion to the situation or be age-inappropriate - Hinder their ability to function normally There are several types of anxiety disorders: generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder with or without agoraphobia, specific phobias, agoraphobia, social anxiety disorder, separation anxiety disorder and selective mutism. ## Types of Anxiety Disorders ### Generalized Anxiety Disorder Generalized anxiety disorder involves persistent and excessive worry that interferes with daily activities. This ongoing worry and tension may be accompanied by physical symptoms, such as restlessness, feeling on edge or easily fatigued, difficulty concentrating, muscle tension or problems sleeping. Often the worries focus on everyday things such as job responsibilities, family health or minor matters such as chores, car repairs, or appointments. ### Panic Disorder The core symptom of panic disorder is recurrent panic attacks, an overwhelming combination of physical and psychological distress. During an attack, several of these symptoms occur in combination: \| Panic Disorder Symptoms During an attack, several of these symptoms occur in combination \| \| \|---\|---\| \| Palpitations, pounding heart or rapid heart rate \| Numbness or tingling \| \| Sweating \| Chills or hot flashes \| \| Trembling or shaking \| Nausea or abdominal pains \| \| Feeling of shortness of breath or smothering sensations \| Feeling detached \| \| Chest pain \| Fear of losing control \| \| Feeling dizzy, light-headed or faint \| Fear of dying \| \| Feeling of choking \| \| Because the symptoms can be quite severe, some people who experience a panic attack may believe they are having a heart attack or some other life-threatening illness. They may go to a hospital emergency department. Panic attacks may be expected, such as a response to a feared object, or unexpected, apparently occurring for no reason. The mean age for onset of panic disorder is 20-24. Panic attacks may occur with other mental disorders such as depression or PTSD. ## How Common Are Anxiety Disorders? In any given year the estimated percent of U.S. adults with various anxiety disorders are\: - Specific Phobia: 8% - 12% (U.S.) - Social Anxiety Disorder: 7% (U.S.) - Panic Disorder: 2% - 3% (U.S.) - Agoraphobia: 1-1.7% (adolescents and adults; worldwide) - Generalized Anxiety Disorder: 0.9% (adolescents)' 2.9% (adults) - Separation Anxiety Disorder: 4% (children); 1.6% (adolescents); 0.9%-1.9% (adults) - Selective mutism: 0.03-1.9% (U.S., Europe, Israel) Women are more likely than men to experience anxiety disorders. ### Phobias, Specific Phobia A specific phobia is excessive and persistent fear of a specific object, situation or activity that is generally not harmful. Patients know their fear is excessive, but they can't overcome it. These fears cause such distress that some people go to extreme lengths to avoid what they fear. Examples are public speaking, fear of flying or fear of spiders. ### Agoraphobia Agoraphobia is the fear of being in situations where escape may be difficult or embarrassing, or help might not be available in the event of panic symptoms. The fear is out of proportion to the actual situation and lasts generally six months or more and causes problems in functioning. A person with agoraphobia experiences this fear in two or more of the following situations: - Using public transportation - Being in open spaces - Being in enclosed places - Standing in line or being in a crowd - Being outside the home alone The individual actively avoids the situation, requires a companion or endures with intense fear or anxiety. Untreated agoraphobia can become so serious that a person may be unable to leave the house. A person can only be diagnosed with agoraphobia if the fear is intensely upsetting, or if it significantly interferes with normal daily activities. ### Social Anxiety Disorder (previously called social phobia) A person with social anxiety disorder has significant anxiety and discomfort about being embarrassed, humiliated, rejected or looked down on in social interactions. People with this disorder will try to avoid the situation or endure it with great anxiety. Common examples are extreme fear of public speaking, meeting new people or eating/drinking in public. The fear or anxiety causes problems with daily functioning and lasts at least six months. ### Separation Anxiety Disorder A person with separation anxiety disorder is excessively fearful or anxious about separation from those with whom he or she is attached. The feeling is beyond what is appropriate for the person's age, persists (at least four weeks in children and six months in adults) and causes problems functioning. A person with separation anxiety disorder may be persistently worried about losing the person closest to him or her, may be reluctant or refuse to go out or sleep away from home or without that person, or may experience nightmares about separation. Physical symptoms of distress often develop in childhood, but symptoms can carry though adulthood. ### Selective Mutism Children with selective mutism do not speak in some social situations where they are expected to speak, such as school, even though they speak in other situations. They will speak in their home around immediate family members, but often will not speak even in front of others, such as close friends or grandparents. The lack of speech may interfere with social communication, although children with this disorder sometimes use non-spoken or nonverbal means (e.g., grunting, pointing, writing). The lack of speech can also have significant consequences in school, leading to academic problems and social isolation. Many children with selective mutism also experience excessive shyness, fear of social embarrassment and high social anxiety. However, they typically have normal language skills. Selective mutism usually begins before age 5, but it may not be formally identified until the child enters school. Many children will outgrow selective mutism. For children who also have social anxiety disorder, selective mutism may disappear, but symptoms of social anxiety disorder may remain. ## Risk Factors* The causes of anxiety disorders are currently unknown but likely involve a combination of factors including genetic, environmental, psychological and developmental. Anxiety disorders can run in families, suggesting that a combination of genes and environmental stresses can produce the disorders. ## Diagnosis, Treatment and Self-Help ![Anxiety Disorders: Parents Medication Guide, American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and American Psychiatric Association](https://www.psychiatry.org/getmedia/2547337e-8146-4180-8485-79eac8b4fe35/PMG-Anxiety-disorders.png) [Anxiety Parent's Medication Guide (.pdf)](https://www.aacap.org/App_Themes/AACAP/docs/resource_centers/resources/med_guides/anxiety-parents-medication-guide.pdf) The first step is to see your doctor to make sure there is no physical problem causing the symptoms. If an anxiety disorder is diagnosed, a mental health professional can work with you on finding the best treatment. Unfortunately, many people with anxiety disorders don't seek help. They don't realize that they have a condition for which there are effective treatments. Although each anxiety disorder has unique characteristics, most respond well to two types of treatment: [psychotherapy](https://www.psychiatry.org/patients-families/psychotherapy) or "talk therapy," and [medications](https://www.psychiatry.org/Patients-Families/Psychiatric-Medications-An-Overview-1). These treatments can be given alone or in combination. Cognitive behavior therapy (CBT), a type of talk therapy, can help a person learn a different way of thinking, reacting and behaving to help feel less anxious. Medications will not cure anxiety disorders, but can provide significant relief from symptoms. The most commonly used medications are anti-anxiety medications (generally prescribed only for a short period of time) and antidepressants. Beta-blockers, used for heart conditions, are sometimes used to control physical symptoms of anxiety. There are a number of things people do to help cope with symptoms of anxiety disorders and make treatment more effective. Stress management techniques and meditation can be helpful. Support groups (in-person or online) can provide an opportunity to share experiences and coping strategies. Learning more about the specifics of a disorder and helping family and friends to understand the condition better can also be helpful. Avoid caffeine, which can worsen symptoms, and check with your doctor about any medications. ## Related Conditions - [Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD)](https://www.psychiatry.org/patients-families/ptsd/what-is-ptsd) - [Acute stress disorder](https://www.psychiatry.org/patients-families/ptsd/what-is-ptsd) - [Obsessive-compulsive disorder](https://www.psychiatry.org/patients-families/ocd/what-is-obsessive-compulsive-disorder) - [Adjustment disorder](https://www.psychiatry.org/patients-families/ptsd/what-is-ptsd) ## Physician Review Philip R. Muskin, M.D., M.A. June 2023 ## Reference \American Psychiatric Association. Anxiety Disorders. In: Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders. 5th ed. Text Revision. American Psychiatric Association; 2022: pp. 215-231. ## Learn More - Other resources ### From ADAA ![Anxiety and Depression Association of America; Patients Gudie to mood and anxiety disorders](https://www.psychiatry.org/getmedia/7af90568-b577-436a-985a-b3dd0084d609/Patients-guide-to-mood-and-anxiety.jpg) Patients Guide to Mood and Anxiety Disorders* From the Anxiety and Depression Association of America Edited by Charles B. Nemeroff, M.D., Ph.D., and W. Edward Craighead, Ph.D. APA Publishing, 2024 [Learn more](https://www.appi.org/Products/Anxiety-Disorders/Anxiety-and-Depression-Association-of-America-Pati?sku=37503) - Other resources ### More on anxiety disorders - AACAP and APA - [Anxiety: Parents' Medication Guide](https://www.aacap.org/App_Themes/AACAP/docs/resource_centers/resources/med_guides/anxiety-parents-medication-guide.pdf) (pdf) - Anxiety and Depression Association of America - [Monthly Webinars to Calm Anxious Minds (ongoing and recorded webinars)](https://adaa.org/learn-from-us/from-the-experts/webinars) - [Living and thriving](http://www.adaa.org/living-with-anxiety) - [Local support groups](http://www.adaa.org/finding-help/getting-support/support-groups) - Mental Health America - [More on Anxiety Disorders](http://www.mentalhealthamerica.net/conditions/anxiety-disorders) - [Online anxiety screening](http://www.mentalhealthamerica.net/mental-health-screen/anxiety) - [Live Your Life Well](http://www.mentalhealthamerica.net/live-your-life-well) - National Alliance on Mental Illness - [Discussion groups](https://www.nami.org/Logon?ReturnUrl=%2FFind-Support%2FDiscussion-Groups) - National Institute on Mental Health - [What Are Anxiety Disorders?](http://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/anxiety-disorders/index.shtml) ## Medical leadership for mind, brain and body. 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Readable Markdown	[ver en español](https://www.psychiatry.org/patients-families/anxiety-disorders/what-are-anxiety-disorders) Anxiety is a normal reaction to stress. Mild levels of anxiety can be beneficial in some situations. It can alert us to dangers and help us prepare and pay attention. Anxiety disorders differ from normal feelings of nervousness or anxiousness and involve excessive fear or anxiety. Anxiety disorders are the most common of mental disorders. They affect nearly 30% of adults at some point in their lives. However, anxiety disorders are treatable with a number of psychotherapeutic treatments. Treatment helps most people lead normal productive lives. Anxiety refers to anticipation of a future concern and is more associated with muscle tension and avoidance behavior. Fear is an emotional response to an immediate threat and is more associated with a fight or flight reaction – either staying to fight or leaving to escape danger. Anxiety disorders can cause people to try to avoid situations that trigger or worsen their symptoms. Job performance, schoolwork and personal relationships can be affected. In general, for a person to be diagnosed with an anxiety disorder, the fear or anxiety must: - Be out of proportion to the situation or be age-inappropriate - Hinder their ability to function normally There are several types of anxiety disorders: generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder with or without agoraphobia, specific phobias, agoraphobia, social anxiety disorder, separation anxiety disorder and selective mutism. Types of Anxiety Disorders ### Generalized Anxiety Disorder Generalized anxiety disorder involves persistent and excessive worry that interferes with daily activities. This ongoing worry and tension may be accompanied by physical symptoms, such as restlessness, feeling on edge or easily fatigued, difficulty concentrating, muscle tension or problems sleeping. Often the worries focus on everyday things such as job responsibilities, family health or minor matters such as chores, car repairs, or appointments. ### Panic Disorder The core symptom of panic disorder is recurrent panic attacks, an overwhelming combination of physical and psychological distress. During an attack, several of these symptoms occur in combination: \| Panic Disorder Symptoms During an attack, several of these symptoms occur in combination \| \| \|---\|---\| \| Palpitations, pounding heart or rapid heart rate \| Numbness or tingling \| \| Sweating \| Chills or hot flashes \| \| Trembling or shaking \| Nausea or abdominal pains \| \| Feeling of shortness of breath or smothering sensations \| Feeling detached \| \| Chest pain \| Fear of losing control \| \| Feeling dizzy, light-headed or faint \| Fear of dying \| \| Feeling of choking \| \| Because the symptoms can be quite severe, some people who experience a panic attack may believe they are having a heart attack or some other life-threatening illness. They may go to a hospital emergency department. Panic attacks may be expected, such as a response to a feared object, or unexpected, apparently occurring for no reason. The mean age for onset of panic disorder is 20-24. Panic attacks may occur with other mental disorders such as depression or PTSD. ### Phobias, Specific Phobia A specific phobia is excessive and persistent fear of a specific object, situation or activity that is generally not harmful. Patients know their fear is excessive, but they can't overcome it. These fears cause such distress that some people go to extreme lengths to avoid what they fear. Examples are public speaking, fear of flying or fear of spiders. ### Agoraphobia Agoraphobia is the fear of being in situations where escape may be difficult or embarrassing, or help might not be available in the event of panic symptoms. The fear is out of proportion to the actual situation and lasts generally six months or more and causes problems in functioning. A person with agoraphobia experiences this fear in two or more of the following situations: - Using public transportation - Being in open spaces - Being in enclosed places - Standing in line or being in a crowd - Being outside the home alone The individual actively avoids the situation, requires a companion or endures with intense fear or anxiety. Untreated agoraphobia can become so serious that a person may be unable to leave the house. A person can only be diagnosed with agoraphobia if the fear is intensely upsetting, or if it significantly interferes with normal daily activities. ### Social Anxiety Disorder (previously called social phobia) A person with social anxiety disorder has significant anxiety and discomfort about being embarrassed, humiliated, rejected or looked down on in social interactions. People with this disorder will try to avoid the situation or endure it with great anxiety. Common examples are extreme fear of public speaking, meeting new people or eating/drinking in public. The fear or anxiety causes problems with daily functioning and lasts at least six months. ### Separation Anxiety Disorder A person with separation anxiety disorder is excessively fearful or anxious about separation from those with whom he or she is attached. The feeling is beyond what is appropriate for the person's age, persists (at least four weeks in children and six months in adults) and causes problems functioning. A person with separation anxiety disorder may be persistently worried about losing the person closest to him or her, may be reluctant or refuse to go out or sleep away from home or without that person, or may experience nightmares about separation. Physical symptoms of distress often develop in childhood, but symptoms can carry though adulthood. ### Selective Mutism Children with selective mutism do not speak in some social situations where they are expected to speak, such as school, even though they speak in other situations. They will speak in their home around immediate family members, but often will not speak even in front of others, such as close friends or grandparents. The lack of speech may interfere with social communication, although children with this disorder sometimes use non-spoken or nonverbal means (e.g., grunting, pointing, writing). The lack of speech can also have significant consequences in school, leading to academic problems and social isolation. Many children with selective mutism also experience excessive shyness, fear of social embarrassment and high social anxiety. However, they typically have normal language skills. Selective mutism usually begins before age 5, but it may not be formally identified until the child enters school. Many children will outgrow selective mutism. For children who also have social anxiety disorder, selective mutism may disappear, but symptoms of social anxiety disorder may remain. Risk Factors The causes of anxiety disorders are currently unknown but likely involve a combination of factors including genetic, environmental, psychological and developmental. Anxiety disorders can run in families, suggesting that a combination of genes and environmental stresses can produce the disorders. Diagnosis, Treatment and Self-Help The first step is to see your doctor to make sure there is no physical problem causing the symptoms. If an anxiety disorder is diagnosed, a mental health professional can work with you on finding the best treatment. Unfortunately, many people with anxiety disorders don't seek help. They don't realize that they have a condition for which there are effective treatments. Although each anxiety disorder has unique characteristics, most respond well to two types of treatment: [psychotherapy](https://www.psychiatry.org/patients-families/psychotherapy) or "talk therapy," and [medications](https://www.psychiatry.org/Patients-Families/Psychiatric-Medications-An-Overview-1). These treatments can be given alone or in combination. Cognitive behavior therapy (CBT), a type of talk therapy, can help a person learn a different way of thinking, reacting and behaving to help feel less anxious. Medications will not cure anxiety disorders, but can provide significant relief from symptoms. The most commonly used medications are anti-anxiety medications (generally prescribed only for a short period of time) and antidepressants. Beta-blockers, used for heart conditions, are sometimes used to control physical symptoms of anxiety. There are a number of things people do to help cope with symptoms of anxiety disorders and make treatment more effective. Stress management techniques and meditation can be helpful. Support groups (in-person or online) can provide an opportunity to share experiences and coping strategies. Learning more about the specifics of a disorder and helping family and friends to understand the condition better can also be helpful. Avoid caffeine, which can worsen symptoms, and check with your doctor about any medications. Related Conditions - [Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD)](https://www.psychiatry.org/patients-families/ptsd/what-is-ptsd) - [Acute stress disorder](https://www.psychiatry.org/patients-families/ptsd/what-is-ptsd) - [Obsessive-compulsive disorder](https://www.psychiatry.org/patients-families/ocd/what-is-obsessive-compulsive-disorder) - [Adjustment disorder](https://www.psychiatry.org/patients-families/ptsd/what-is-ptsd) ## Physician Review Philip R. Muskin, M.D., M.A. June 2023 ## Reference \American Psychiatric Association. Anxiety Disorders. In: Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders. 5th ed. Text Revision*. American Psychiatric Association; 2022: pp. 215-231.
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