Introduction

Anxiety Disorders are among the most common mental health conditions worldwide. They involve persistent, excessive fear or worry that interferes with daily functioning, sometimes accompanied by physical symptoms.

Causes

Anxiety disorders arise from a combination of genetic, neurobiological, environmental, and psychological influences. Life stressors (such as trauma, major life changes, chronic stress), personality factors, and sometimes co-existing medical conditions can play a role.

Types

The umbrella of anxiety disorders includes various subtypes, such as: generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), panic disorder, social anxiety disorder (social phobia), specific phobias, separation anxiety, and can overlap with conditions like Obsessive‑Compulsive Disorder (OCD) and Post‑Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).

Symptoms

Common symptoms of anxiety include persistent worry or fear, restlessness, feeling on edge, irritability, difficulty concentrating, sleep disturbances, muscle tension, and physical symptoms such as rapid heartbeat, trembling, sweating or gastrointestinal upset. In panic disorder, individuals may experience sudden panic attacks — episodes of overwhelming fear with physical symptoms. In social anxiety, fear is triggered in social situations; in phobias, by specific objects or

Treatment & Follow-Up

Anxiety disorders are highly treatable. First-line treatments often involve psychotherapy — especially CBT — which helps people identify and reframe negative thought patterns, develop coping skills, and reduce avoidance behaviors. For many, medication (such as antidepressants or anti-anxiety medications) may be beneficial, depending on severity and individual needs.

Additional support may include lifestyle interventions: regular exercise, good sleep hygiene, stress reduction techniques (mindfulness, relaxation, breathing exercises), and routine follow-up to monitor symptoms, adjust treatment, and support long-term management.

You can also check out the following: Psychotherapy, Medication Management, General Adult Psychiatry, Telepsychiatry