What Is Anxiety Disorder?
A quarter of Australians suffer from anxiety disorders at some point in their life, which emphasizes the significance of recognizing and treating them early on. A certain amount of worry is acceptable and acts as a built-in alert mechanism, but if left unchecked, continuous anxiety can seriously impair one's well-being. About 10% of people worldwide suffer from long-term anxiety problems, which can get worse over time if left untreated.
Anxiety Types
Five main categories of anxiety disorders exist:
a. Anxiety Disorder with Generalization (GAD)
It is characterized by enduringly tense and anxious feelings, often accompanied by physical discomfort. It frequently coexists with depression and other anxiety disorders.
b. OCD, Or Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder
Obsessive actions and persistent intrusive thoughts characterize it. Those with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) participate in ritualistic behaviour. This condition usually shows symptoms in early childhood or adolescence.
c. PTSD, Or Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder
This results from exposure to a stressful experience and causes uncomfortable memories or flashbacks to reoccur. PTSD affects the person experiencing it directly and everyone in their immediate vicinity.
d. Panic Disorder
It involves frequent bouts of abrupt, severe anxiety or terror, frequently accompanied by symptoms including palpitations, chest pain, and shortness of breath.
e. Social Fear
A severe dread or aversion to social situations characterizes it. People who suffer from social anxiety feel insecure, ashamed, and afraid of other people's opinions.
Symptoms of Anxiety
Every person experiences a variety of symptoms caused by anxiety. These symptoms are as follow:
- Palpitations
- Chest tightness
- Shortness of breath
- Sweating
- Tremors
- Digestive problems
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Eating disorders
- Muscle stiffness
- Fatigue
- Tingling
- Dizziness
- Possible sexual dysfunction
Physical Symptoms
- Restlessness
- Feelings of threat or danger
- Desire to flee or attack
- Insecurity
- Feeling of emptiness
- Fear of losing control
- Uncertainty
- Difficulty making decisions
- Negative thoughts
- Potential for suicidal idealization in severe cases
Psychological Symptoms
- Impulsivity
- Motor restlessness
- Difficulty staying still
- Alertness
- Clumsiness
- Changes in body language (e.g., closed postures, clumsy movements)
- Numbness in jaw
- Voice changes
- Excessive doubts
Behavioural Symptoms
- Difficulty with concentration
- Poor memory
- Increased carelessness
- Excessive worry
- Negative expectations
- Distorted thoughts
- Increased doubts and confusion
- Tendency to remember unpleasant things
- Inadequate interpretations
Intellectual or Cognitive Symptoms
- Irritability
- Self-absorption
- Difficulties in starting or carrying a conversation
- Blocking or going blank when asking or answering
- Difficulties in expressing opinions or asserting one’s rights
- Fear of rejection
Social Symptoms
Anxiety Disorder Treatment
See our psychiatrist if you are experiencing any of the symptoms listed above. After a comprehensive evaluation, Our Psychiatrist can evaluate your ailment and create a customized treatment plan. Thankfully, there are highly successful therapies for anxiety disorders that allow people to take back control and lead happy, satisfying lives.
Diagnosing Anxiety Disorder
Medical experts must conduct a comprehensive assessment to rule out other curable ailments to ensure an accurate and prompt diagnosis of anxiety disorders. There may be similarities between the symptoms of anxiety and depression, physical ailments, and other mental health issues.
I. Examining the patient's past medical records.
II. Using standardized tests to evaluate the patient's behaviour, mood, memory, and cognitive abilities.
III. Running blood testing to ensure no underlying medical issues.
IV. Monitoring brain activity with brain imaging scans to identify any anomalies linked to anxiety disorders.
How can Tele Thoughts help with Anxiety?
• Performing evaluations to determine whether anxiety disorders are present.
• Providing accurate diagnoses for a range of anxiety disorders.
• Provide support to patients and their carers or family members efficiently manage the illness.
• Prescribe medication as necessary
• Assist your regular GP in finding a suitable and experienced psychologist for CBT.
