Feeling anxious is a common emotion. Some anxiety is normal when facing stressful events. However, when anxiety becomes persistent, overwhelming, and irrational, it may interfere with daily activities like performance at work and relationships. When anxiety becomes excessive, one may develop an anxiety disorder.
There are different types of anxiety disorders, including:
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Panic disorder – When one experiences recurrent panic attacks. Panic attacks are a sudden surge of intense fear/ discomfort that reaches a peak within minutes.
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Agoraphobia – Significant fear/ anxiety about the following situations (lasting for 6 months or more) because of thoughts that escape might be difficult or help might not be available in the event of panic:
- Being in enclosed place
- Being in open spaces
- Being outside of the home alone
- Using public transportation
- Standing in line or being in a crowd
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Generalised anxiety disorder (GAD) – Excessive anxiety and worry about a number of events/ activities occurring most of the time, for at least 6 months. People with GAD find it difficult to control their worry.