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Overview
Definition
As with many other mental illnesses, anxiety disorders are chronic, unremitting and may grow worse unless properly treated. Sufferers may be tormented by:
- Episodes of panic.
- Irrational thoughts and fears.
- Compulsive behaviors or rituals.
- Flashbacks.
- Nightmares.
- Numerous physical symptoms such as heart palpitations and sweating.
Other problems such as substance abuse or depression often accompany anxiety disorders. More than 19 million Americans have one or more anxiety disorders, an umbrella term that includes panic disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder and phobias.
Prognosis
While anxiety disorders do not have a cure, many effective treatments can relieve symptoms and greatly improve quality of life. Medications and therapy help greatly. Unfortunately, a large percentage of sufferers are never properly diagnosed or treated mainly because of the social stigma attached to anxiety disorders and other mental health problems.
More on Anxiety
In the Encyclopedia:
Symptoms
 | Chest tightness |
| Dizziness |
| Difficulty breathing |
| Shaking |
| Shortness of breath |
This article was reviewed and updated June 2007.
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