Treatable Anxiety Disorders

Panic Attacks 

Physical responses like perspiration or accelerated heart rate occur when emotions are activated by anxiety or stressful circumstances. These manifestations are believed to stem from evolutionary survival mechanisms, where the autonomic nervous system (ANS) communicates with various organs, muscles and glands. Anxiety frequently produces a spectrum of bodily sensations.

 

Panic Disorder 

Panic disorder can present greater complexity than panic episodes linked to specific fears, as heightened anxiety and panic may arise without any identifiable or conscious trigger. This frequently results in avoiding environments with crowds or even expansive spaces that might provoke panic responses. Over time, this pattern can develop into additional anxiety conditions like agoraphobia (apprehension about being in locations or circumstances where panic attacks might occur).

 

Generalised Anxiety Disorder 

Generalised anxiety disorder (GAD) ranks among the most common anxiety conditions, with studies indicating approximately two million people affected across the UK. While many individuals initially downplay their experience by labeling themselves as 'worriers' or hearing others say they're 'never content without something to fret about', the condition is actually persistent and frequently coexists with other issues including depression, social phobia, digestive problems, sleep disturbances and substance misuse.

 

Depersonalisation 

Depersonalisation involves an internal sense of disconnection, a subjective experience of being detached from one's surroundings. Commonly described as feeling 'spaced out' or existing in a dreamlike fog, perception of time may distort and events can seem to unfold in slow motion. Throughout these episodes, one's grasp of reality remains intact as this isn't a break from reality. Nevertheless, despite maintaining this awareness, depersonalisation can prove terrifying and profoundly disturbing as those experiencing it often fear it will persist indefinitely or indicate mental deterioration.

 

Obsessive Compulsive Disorder 

Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) manifests through persistent intrusive thoughts and repetitive behaviours that create substantial distress and frequently disrupt everyday functioning. Those living with OCD experience a compelling urge to perform specific behavioural or cognitive rituals to prevent an unrealistic feared consequence or diminish anxiety levels.

 

Social Anxiety Disorder 

Social anxiety disorder (SAD) involves apprehension surrounding social contexts including encountering unfamiliar individuals, participating in gatherings, public speaking, using shared facilities, interacting with authority figures, dining publicly and expressing disagreement or opposition toward others. Studies indicate that certain individuals with social phobia maintain elevated perfectionist standards concerning their public presentation and similarly how they evaluate others' conduct. They deeply fear that others will observe their anxiety symptoms such as facial flushing, trembling or perspiration.

 

Depression 

Experiencing low moods periodically is normal, but when feelings like despair and hopelessness become entrenched and persistent, you may be facing depression or an anxiety condition. Beyond ordinary sadness following life's difficulties and disappointments, depression alters your thinking patterns, emotional state, and capacity to function daily. It can compromise your ability to work productively, learn effectively, maintain eating and sleeping patterns, and find enjoyment. Simply managing each day can feel insurmountable. Without intervention, it can escalate into a significant health concern. However, it's crucial to recognize that these feelings of powerlessness and despair are manifestations of depression—not accurate reflections of your circumstances. Professional support can offer pathways to address and resolve persistent low mood.