Anxiety disorders are among the most common mental health conditions, affecting millions of people worldwide. These disorders go beyond ordinary stress or nervousness, significantly impacting daily life, relationships, and overall well-being. At Accord Superspeciality Hospital’s Department of Mental Health and Behavioural Sciences, we are committed to helping individuals overcome anxiety disorders through expert care and evidence-based treatments.

What is Anxiety Disorder?

Anxiety disorder is a mental health condition characterized by excessive fear, worry, or nervousness that is disproportionate to the situation at hand. While occasional anxiety is a normal response to stress, individuals with anxiety disorders experience persistent, overwhelming feelings of distress that can interfere with their ability to function.

Types of Anxiety Disorders

Anxiety disorders encompass a range of conditions, including:

1. Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD):
   • Characterized by chronic, excessive worry about everyday situations.
   • Common symptoms include restlessness, fatigue, and difficulty concentrating.
2. Panic Disorder:
   • Involves recurrent panic attacks, which are sudden episodes of intense fear.
   • Symptoms include rapid heart rate, sweating, dizziness, and feelings of impending doom.
3. Social Anxiety Disorder:
   • Extreme fear of social situations and being judged or embarrassed by others.
   • Often leads to avoidance of social interactions.
4. Specific Phobias:
   • Intense fear of specific objects or situations, such as heights, spiders, or flying.
   • The fear is irrational but can trigger significant distress.
5. Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD):
   • Involves intrusive thoughts (obsessions) and repetitive behaviors (compulsions).
   • Common examples include excessive handwashing or checking.
6. Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD):
   • Develops after exposure to a traumatic event, leading to flashbacks, nightmares, and hypervigilance.

Causes of Anxiety Disorders

The exact causes of anxiety disorders are not fully understood, but several factors contribute to their development:

1. Genetics: A family history of anxiety disorders can increase susceptibility.
2. Brain Chemistry:Imbalances in neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine.
3. Environmental Factors: Trauma, abuse, or significant life stressors.
4. Medical Conditions: Chronic illnesses or hormonal imbalances can trigger anxiety.
5. Personality Traits: People with certain personality types, such as perfectionists, may be more prone to anxiety.

Symptoms of Anxiety Disorders

The symptoms of anxiety disorders vary but commonly include:

• Excessive worry or fear.
• Restlessness or feeling on edge.
• Rapid heartbeat and shortness of breath.
• Muscle tension and headaches.
• Difficulty concentrating or sleeping.
• Avoidance of situations that trigger anxiety.

If these symptoms persist for an extended period and interfere with daily life, it’s essential to seek professional help.

Diagnosis of Anxiety Disorders

Diagnosis involves a comprehensive evaluation by a mental health professional. This includes:

1. Case History :- Includes-personal history, past history, medical history, mental status examination.
2. Psychological Assessment: Understanding the severity, triggers, and patterns of anxiety.
3. Standardized Questionnaires: Tools like Hamilton Anxiety rating scale (HAM-A) Beck Anxiety Inventory, Yale-Brown obsessive compulsive scale (Y-BOCS)

Treatment Options for Anxiety Disorders

Effective treatment can help individuals manage anxiety and lead fulfilling lives. At Accord Superspeciality Hospital, our approach includes:

1. Psychotherapy:
   • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): Helps individuals identify and change negative thought patterns.
   • Exposure Therapy: Gradual exposure to feared situations to reduce avoidance.
     • learn to attach more realistic beliefs to their fears
     • Mindfulness Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT)
     • Interpersonal Therapy