Learn how to understand your anxiety

A simple google search shows that 4% of the global population suffer from an anxiety disorder. The most common types of anxiety are Generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder, social anxiety, phobia-related disorders.

In our time, anxiety has become the most common mental disorder. 

This post will be in two parts. Today we will talk about different type of anxiety and in a next post we will see how to take advantage of your anxiety.

What is anxiety ?

Everyone has anxiety at some point in their life. It can become a problem when anxiety interferes in your daily life and causes health problems or isolation.

Anxiety is the physical or mental response to stress, worry or fear. The body doesn’t know how to differentiate a fear or stress generated by real factors or our imagination, which is why people feel overwhelmed, nervous, have panic attacks etc. 

By understanding your body and what is triggering your anxiety you can learn how to calm your body and use your anxiety for a better life.

The 4 most common type of anxiety

1. Generalized anxiety disorder

People with a generalized anxiety disorder (GAD)  have excessive or unrealistic anxiety regarding different aspects of their life (Relationship with others, family, work, finance, health). 

Symptoms:

• A constant feeling of fear or imminent danger
• Heavy breathing
• Difficulty concentrating or paying attention

2. Social anxiety

People with social anxiety feel overwhelmed and fear in social situations. They have a persistent fear of being watched, judged or not accepted by others. Social anxiety can affect work, school and other daily activities.

Symptoms:

• Increased heartbeat, sweating, dizziness, and trembling
• Panic attacks
• Upset stomach

3. Panic disorder

Individuals with a panic disorder have frequent and sudden panic attacks characterized by fear.

Symptoms:

• Difficulty breathing or a feel of suffocation 
• Nausea, abdominal pain
• Chest pain

Not everyone experiencing a panic attack develops a panic disorder.

4. Phobia-related disorders

Some types of anxiety are triggered by phobias. Some people feel intense fear regarding insects, being in a close area like an elevator, heights, being on a bridge, plane and many more. 
Some phobias can have severe symptoms that affect someone’s life.

Symptoms:

• Sweating, rapid heartbeat, tight chest or trouble breathing
• Fainting, dizziness
• Panic attacks

Note: It’s essential to keep in mind that people suffer differently from anxiety. These symptoms vary in intensity and duration depending on your level of stress and fear. Do never hesitate to seek help from a professional if your anxiety is too intense.