Anxiety

Anxiety is a psychological state characterized by a sense of worry or anticipation over a future concern. It is normal to experience some degree of anxiety, but it can become a problem when it is excessive compared to the object or event of concern or when it interferes with a person’s daily life.

Signs and symptoms of anxiety

• Excessive fear or worry
• Catastrophising
• Feelings of panic
• Increased heart rate
• Breathing too quickly (i.e. hyperventilation)
• Trembling
• Disturbed sleep (e.g. insomnia)
• Difficulty concentrating
• Avoiding situations that provoke anxiety

Anxiety disorders include

• Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD): excessive anxiety about various aspects of one’s life (e.g. school, work, social activities) that is difficult to control and lasts for six months or more.
• Social anxiety disorder (SDA; sometimes called social phobia): excessive anxiety relating to social situations (e.g. parties, meeting new people) where there is the possibility of scrutiny by others.
• Panic disorder: involves unexpected and recurrent panic attacks and the fear of having further attacks or behaviours aimed at avoiding future attacks. Panic attacks involve an overwhelming sense of fear, a racing heart, trembling, hyperventilation, and sweating.