Anxiety Disorders

Anxiety disorders are mental health conditions characterized by excessive fear, worry, or nervousness that interfere with daily life. These feelings often occur without a clear cause or feel disproportionate to the situation. Symptoms may include physical (racing heart, sweating), cognitive (persistent worry), or behavioral changes (avoidance of certain situations).

Common types of anxiety disorders include:

• Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) – Ongoing, excessive worry about daily life.
• Panic disorder –  Sudden, intense panic attacks with physical symptoms like chest pain or shortness of breath.
• Social anxiety disorder – Extreme fear of social situations due to fear of judgment or embarrassment.
• Specific phobias –  Intense fear of particular objects or situations (e.g., heights, animals).
• Agoraphobia – Fear of situations where escape may be difficult during an anxiety episode.

Effective treatment can help individuals regain control and enhance their quality of life through therapy, effective coping strategies, and ongoing support.

Anxiety disorders involve excessive and persistent fear or worry that often feels out of proportion to the situation and can be hard to control. While symptoms can vary depending on the type of anxiety disorder, common signs include:

Emotional Symptoms

• Ongoing fear or worry about specific situations or outcomes.
• Overthinking or catastrophizing potential dangers.

Physical Symptoms

• Increased heart rate or palpitations.
• Shortness of breath, dizziness, or lightheadedness.
• Sweating, muscle tension, or headaches.
• Fatigue, nausea, or stomach discomfort.

Behavioral Symptoms

• Avoidance of anxiety-inducing situations (e.g., social gatherings, public spaces).
• Difficulty concentrating due to intrusive anxious thoughts.
• Restlessness or feeling constantly “on edge.

These symptoms can significantly disrupt daily life, affecting relationships, work, or school, and may contribute to physical health problems due to ongoing stress.

If your anxiety symptoms are interfering with daily life, relationships, or work, it may be time to seek professional help. Persistent feelings of fear, worry, or physical symptoms, such as a rapid heartbeat, sweating, or restlessness, that don’t improve over time may signal the need for treatment.

Early intervention can lead to more effective outcomes and a better quality of life. Don’t wait for symptoms to worsen — take the first step toward managing anxiety and improving your well-being. At Lifeskills, we offer personalized care to help you regain control and find lasting relief. Contact us today.