Introduction to Anxiety Disorders

Nearly 40 million American adults are affected by some form of anxiety disorder in a given year. Anxiety disorders can cause fearfulness and uncertainty. Unlike mild and brief anxiety which is sometimes caused by a first date or having to speak in a public setting, anxiety disorders can last months and worsen if they are not addressed and treated. Other physical and mental illnesses tend to occur along with anxiety disorders making the symptoms much worse.

Effective therapies for anxiety disorders are available, and research is uncovering new treatments that can help most people with anxiety disorders lead productive, fulfilling lives. If you think you have an anxiety disorder, you should seek information and treatment right away. Each anxiety disorder has different symptoms, but all the symptoms cluster around excessive, irrational dread and fear.