The Neurotransmitters Involved In Anxiety Disorder

Anxiety disorder is one of the most common mental disorders in the United States. There are different types of this disorder such as obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), generalized anxiety disorder(GAD), and post traumatic stress disorder(PTSD). There are several causes for an anxiety disorder. Mostly, it is due to abnormal levels of certain chemicals, which are known as neurotransmitters, in the brain.

The brain continuously secretes neurotransmitters to balance mood levels and keep them stable. When mood levels are not stable, a person faces mood problems, such as anxiety, stress and depression. Anxiety is also often seen as a sign of depression. Most of these mood disorders can be treated with help of various medications. However, it is important to consult a doctor before taking any medications.

Serotonin is one of the chemicals that plays an important role in maintaining stress levels. A decreased level of serotonin as well as reduced activity of this neurotransmitter can result in anxiety, according to the US Surgeon General. If the anxiety disorder is due to low serotonin levels, it can be treated with the help of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). In fact, these medications are better treatment options for people suffering from OCD and PTSD.

Gamma amino butyric acid, or GABA, is a neurotransmitter that has a calming effect on people. Like serotonin a deficiency in this neurotransmitter can cause anxiety disorders. To treat lowered levels of GABA, benzodiazepines are frequently prescribed. These medications bind with the GABA receptors and boost the inhibitory response of the neurotransmitter. As a result the person gets quick relief from anxiety. However, these medications are not meant for long-term use, as they can be addictive.

Norepinephrine is another neurotransmitter that can cause anxiety disorders, if not found in right levels. This neurotransmitter is also known as nonadrenaline. It excites a person and prepares him/her for the flight-or-fight response. When the body perceives a stressful situation, this neurotransmitter is released by the adrenaline gland. However, if the person is under chronic stress, norepinephrine is constantly produced by the adrenal glands and the body is always in the state of flight-or-fight response. As the result, the person is always stressed out and jumpy. This type of anxiety disorder can be treated with the help of SNRIs or serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors. These drugs are approved by the US FDA for treating depression, but they can also be used for anxiety disorders, according to Mayo Clinic. Some of the side effects of these drugs include dryness of the mouth, tremors, nausea and insomnia.

Corticotrophin releasing hormone (CRH) plays a very important role in managing stress disorders, according to the Surgeon General of the United States. CRH is released in increased quantities in the case of anxiety disorder. An article published in 2008 in the European Journal of Pharmacology states that drugs that target CRH receptors in the cells could hold the key to effective treatment of depression as well as other anxiety disorders.

Anxiety Disorders and the Media

One of the most powerful sources of information in society today is the media. The media not only reflects society but also drives it. It guides and shapes every single one of us in believing what is right, good and successful. Media-driven ideals regarding success are worshiped: we aspire to the examples of successful living they create. If we cannot achieve similar success we are deemed a failure and, even worse, made to feel a failure.

Hand-in-hand with success and failure comes criticism. Today's society is also one of criticism. We love to criticize; to build people up then knock them down. Perhaps the negative feelings we all felt when criticized as a child find expression later in life by such means.

The media is extremely powerful; TV sits there in the corner of the room, day in and day out, bombarding us with messages, many of which are negative. (An interesting aside: many psychotic problems involve 'hearing strange voices' - well we all hear strange voices everyday, they travel through the air as radio waves and come out of small electronic boxes in our homes). Bad role models abound (their 'badness' often celebrated), ratings of the more base TV shows soar and sex and violence rules - perhaps reflecting the true human instincts rebelling against society's constraints?

Culturally defined ideals are often shaped by the media and one of the most insidious, negative influences in our lives comes from advertising. Here, human nature is often prayed upon: we are deliberately made to feel inadequate and that nothing we have is quite good enough. But we can feel better, indeed we can be perfect and have perfect lives, just like those attractive people we see in the adverts - if only we buy the product!

The effect of advertising can lead to every single one of us feeling constricted and pressurized by an invisible force constantly driving us to have more in order to be better, in order to feel better.

One of the most disastrous effects of media on people's lives (particularly women's lives) is the preoccupation with body image.

Society is now obsessed with body image. Most adverts play on our deep instincts relating to attraction and procreation. We all have instinctual concepts of beauty (even infants) for it is seen as an indicator of health and good genes and advertisers use this for profit. Combining winning and losing and possessing with attractiveness and beauty, the media and society forge a strong bond between body image and success in our minds. One study in 1999, by Anne Becker (an Anthropologist at Harvard Medical School) reported a five-fold increase in the symptoms associated with eating disorders among Fijian girls (normally robust and happy about it) since the arrival of TV to Fiji in 1995. In Western society today, 80% of women are unhappy with their bodies and girls of nine and ten are going on diets.

If we don't conform to these society-and-media-imposed standards of attractiveness, age and weight we feel different and are treated differently and may feel 'not good enough' - our inner feelings enhanced by manufactured images and ideals. And how we feel about ourselves, deep down, flows through all anxiety disorders and depression.

Anxiety Disorders in Children

It is perhaps surprising and somewhat disturbing to discover that children can suffer a range of anxiety disorders like adults. We normally think of childhood as being a carefree time, the one time in a child's life when they don't have the concerns of earning a living or taking on the responsibilities of property ownership.

If we think about it a little more however, we may come to realise that a child growing up has to meet and overcome a number of challenges before he or she even gets to school leaving age. A young child has to come to terms with being separated from its mother, it has to learn about potty training, and how to interact socially with other children, within the first few years of life.

Once primary school age is reached there begins the challenge of education and the need to pass exams, to achieve at sport perhaps and to be popular amongst peers. A certain amount of anxiety along the way is normal. We can expect a child to worry even at a fairly early age if they have an exam coming up or are to perform in the school play. An anxiety disorder is said to occur when a child is worrying beyond the norm and hence shows some signs of distress or fails to function in a normal manner.

Children can exhibit a range of symptoms associated with excessive anxiety, such as inability to sleep or eat properly, bed wetting, irritability, lack of concentration, headaches, stomach pains or nausea, or just an unwillingness to go to school. These are all symptoms that something is wrong in the child's life and it is not always easy to know exactly what the cause is.

In an attempt to help and treat anxiety in children it is classified into several different types: Generalised anxiety disorder, panic disorder, separation disorder, social disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder and post-traumatic stress disorder. Sometimes there may be an overlap, as for example when a child suffers general anxiety plus panic attacks, or general anxiety with a particular fear of social activity.

Generalised Anxiety

This is similar to that which an adult might experience in that the child worries excessively across the board and is depressed often and irritable. A child with excessive anxiety may not sleep well or perform well at school which unfortunately tends to exacerbate the problem. There might be one specific reason such as being bullied at school, but if none can be found the help of a professional is advised.

Panic Disorder

This is characterised by repeated short bursts of intense anxiety and fear. The attacks usually only last a few minutes or up to half an hour but can occur quite frequently and are very distressing. The feelings of fear are so strong that they cause actual physical symptoms such as a pounding heart, shortness of breath or vomiting. Sometimes children can overcome these themselves with careful parental support but sometimes they can lead to withdrawal and not wanting to go out much. If this happens or your child is depressed over a period of time, you should see your doctor.

Separation disorder

Separation from its mother can be slightly traumatic for a child the first time but usually if its only for a short time they cope well and soon get used to it.. However when a child goes to school and is away from mum all day, he or she may exhibit signs of undue anxiety. This may result in a clinging behaviour, stomach or headaches, or nightmares. With continued reassurance and support the child may well in time, overcome these fears.

Social Disorder

Social disorder usually becomes apparent during the teens when most youngsters are keen to mix with their peers. A teenager with a social phobia will shun these activities and be generally unwilling or too embarrassed to join in. Social phobia need not necessarily interfere with school work but does undermine the normal building up of social skills.

Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)

A child with OCD tends to have obsessive thoughts which they can't get out of its head. In an attempt to distract from these, often unpleasant thoughts, a child will set itself the task of performing a ritual in connection with some normal activity, where every step has to done in a certain order or certain way. Often this means that an excessive amount of time is spent on normal routines which wastes time and makes the child preoccupied with trivial things.

Post-traumatic stress disorder

A traumatic event can be especially damaging for a child and cause an emotional upset that can last a long time and be difficult to overcome. The symptoms are those of a generalised anxiety, with sometimes nightmares, sleep problems, loss of appetite and a constant anxious state of mind. Professional help may well be necessary to help a child overcome these anxieties.

Anxiety - A Disabling Disorder

Anxiety is a reaction to any stress. It helps one deal with a tense situation in the office, or having harder study for an exam. Generally, it helps one cope but when anxiety becomes an excessive, irrational dread of everyday situations, it has become a disabling disorder.

Anxiety Disorders affect about 40 million American and mainly adults age 18 years and older in a given year. It also causes them to be filled with fearfulness and uncertainty. Unlike the relatively mild, brief anxiety caused by a stressful event and this can be anything such as speaking in public or a first date, anxiety disorders last at least 6 months. This may be reached to worse condition if they are not treated.

Causes: Many studies suggest there is a relation between anxiety disorder and difficulty in maintaining balance. There is a possible mechanism, which is malfunction in the parabrachial nucleus, which is a structure in the brain among other functions; it also coordinates signals from the amygdale with input concerning balance. The amygdale is involved in the emotion of fear. Some times in some cases, biochemical factors come into play major role in causing disorder.

Symptoms: Anxiety disorders commonly occur along with other mental or physical illnesses, including alcohol or substance abuse, which may mask anxiety symptoms or make them worse. In some cases, these other illnesses need to be treated before a person will respond to treatment for the anxiety disorder. 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.

Treatment: Anxiety is the most common and most treatable mental disorders. Effective treatments include cognitive behavioral therapy, relaxation techniques, and biofeedback to control muscle tension are used to treat this problem. Medication, most commonly anti-anxiety drugs, such as benzodiazepine and its derivatives, also may be required in some cases. Some commonly prescribed anti-anxiety medications are diazepam, alprazolam, and lorazepam. The non-benzodiazepine anti-anxiety medication buspirone can be helpful for some individuals.

Anxiety Disorders in Children

For most children, fear and anxiety is a part of the natural process of growing up, but if these conditions develop into patterns, they can lead to anxiety disorders in children that can be debilitating and can also cause a fair amount of other emotional problems that inhibit their ability to enjoy life. Some anxiety disorders in children begin as small anxieties such as starting school or having to take a test. In most cases, these small fears or concerns pass as quickly as they arrive and don't develop into anxiety disorders in children, but for some, they become a form of panic disorder.

As adults, we tend to want to protect our children and help preserve their innocence, but this isn't always possible. Anxiety disorders in children can often be very similar to those experienced by adults and can be as debilitating. Children may obsess over certain everyday occurrences at school or at home, and one common characteristic is that they tend to be perfectionists and very hard on themselves. They may actually continue to work on something until they deem it is perfect and if they can't achieve their envisioned level of perfection, become irrationally upset and frustrated by their efforts.

Anxiety disorders in children can manifest as obsessive-compulsive disorders or panic disorders. A panic disorder in children is usually indicated by two panic attacks that were not expected followed by constant fear of having another one that lasts for at least one month. In most cases, young children don't exhibit this panic disorder but adolescents are more likely to develop symptoms.

OCD, or obsessive-compulsive disorder, is an anxiety disorder that entails intrusive thoughts or obsessions about certain behaviors or events that can't seem to be eliminated from the person's mind. They may develop repetitive behaviors, such as repeated washing of their hands or opening and closing a door they walk through several times. There are numerous behaviors that develop from OCD and should not be limited to these examples. Usually, children younger than ten are not diagnosed with OCD, but it has been known to be diagnosed in children as young as two or three. OCD can also manifest itself as a sense of terror a child feels if they do something wrong.

Anxiety disorders in children can also come across through phobias, which are irrational fears about certain situations, locations or objects. Most children will have fears throughout their youth, but it is the persistent fear, even when the situation is not present, that can lead to anxiety disorders in children.

Children sometimes must endure the loss of a parent, a natural disaster, an assault, an abuse, or other traumatic event and this can lead to post traumatic stress disorders, which is another kind of anxiety disorder. Children who suffer from PTSD may not eat well, have trouble sleeping, suffer nightmares that persist, or worry about the same thing happening again.

Anxiety disorders experienced most commonly in children can also be seen in adults, but the physical and emotional symptoms can be quite different. Children often do not understand or realize that their fears are irrational and they may not have the ability to express their emotions effectively. Children with anxiety disorders may exhibit tantrums, clinginess, or cry excessively and should be seen by professional medical personnel.

Panic Attacks Information - Panic's Role in Anxiety Disorders

Humans experience anxiety as a natural part of life. The world is a busy place with activities occurring all around us. Since most of us do not live in a bubble, we frequently come across circumstances that may not be comfortable. These situations may seem large or small, depending upon the viewpoint of the participant. That viewpoint determines whether or not the situation will precipitate a panic attack.

Choosing a dress for an important date may seem minor to most people, but to someone who suffers from an anxiety disorder, this decision may occupy their waking thoughts for days or weeks prior to the event and cause great anxiety. When the feelings of excessive worrying, abnormal fear, or continually feeling out of control in life continue to the point a person's ability to live a normal life is affected, this is called an anxiety disorder. There are several types of these disorders, each with their own set of symptoms, causes, and treatments. The most common ones include:

• Specific Phobias


• Panic Disorder


• Social Anxiety Disorder


• Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD)


• Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)


• Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)

One of the ties that binds all of these disorders together is that sufferers may endure some minor form of panic attacks as part of their condition. The sets of attack symptoms are not always the same between the different categories, but there are a lot of similarities, such as dizziness, difficulty breathing and a racing heartbeat.

How do you know what kind of anxiety disorder you have? Psychologists, psychiatrists, and medical doctors have spent decades of time and millions of dollars discovering the best ways to classify mental illnesses. Does it really matter if you know which anxiety disorder you suffer from? Once you identify the problem, treating it becomes much easier. This is why it is important to consult with a health care professional who is trained to recognize and treat symptoms of anxiety and panic attacks. Why prolong your healing if it is not necessary?

The 5 Types of Anxiety Disorders

Overview of Anxiety Disorders

Today, many people face acute anxiety. And, with this said, many people have found significant relief and have even been cured of their anxiety. So, in all cases, there is hope.

This article provides an overview of the 5 different types of anxiety disorders. If you believe you are suffering from anxiety, maybe you will be able to identify which type of anxiety you may be suffering from (this article is in no way a substitute for professional care.)

In the realm of human emotional and physical conditions, there are various problems which are harmful to our well-being. Anxiety is one such condition.

The problem of anxiety is often related to the issue of fear control. In general, our ingrained flight or fight response gets put into high gear, and no longer functions properly. The result is anxiety.

Types of Anxiety Disorders

Generally, there are 5 types of anxiety disorders which are based on psychical and emotional symptoms. Each type of anxiety have their respective characteristic which often need different forms of treatments.

1. One of the common type of anxiety disorder is generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) which is the most common type. It is characterized by long-lasting anxiety leading to continuous stress, worry and chronic depression.

2. Phobias are another type of anxiety. Here a specific situation is likely to cause fear. For example, the fear of enclosed spaces in called claustrophobia.

3. Another type of anxiety disorder is Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). It is largely associated with an individual experiencing a certain traumatic event, such as a life threatening situation. The aftermath of the event can bring upon flashbacks, as well as avoidance of any stimuli which reminds an individual of the event.

4. Panic attacks are another form of anxiety. Panic attacks are largely characterized by sudden panic and feelings of dread. Often, an individuals feels as though the may be experiencing a heart attack. Trembling, shaking, sweating and feeling as though one is going crazy are all possible symptoms of a panic attack.

5. Finally, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is also considered an anxiety disorder. The major symptoms of OCD include an individual experiencing intrusive and unwanted thoughts, sometimes of a sexual or aggressive nature. In order to try and avoid, or negate such thoughts (either consciously or unconsciously) a person then begins to engage in rituals (compulsions) which are repeated behaviors such, as is a common example, of washing one's hands over and over again.

The above explanations are broad strokes which outline the types of anxiety disorders. To learn more, I recommend you visit some government website's like the National Institute for Mental Health, which provides extensive free and highly reliable information. The American Psychological Association in another good source of information.

The Cause of Social Anxiety Disorder

When people have social anxiety disorder or social phobia everyday situations can become very overwhelming. These feelings can become intense and can vary from person to person. People can fear different types of situations that have anxiety disorders. People that have social anxiety disorders may have some of these symptoms while they are in certain social situations. They fear that they will make mistakes that everyone will notice, they fear that they are always going to be judged by others, they have the fear of being embarrassed or humiliated by themselves in front of others, they think that everyone's attention is on them, and they think that other people are more capable of doing something in the same situation.

In situations that are feared, people that have social anxiety disorder will feel intense anxiety. The anxiety they feel may lead to trembling, pounding heart, blushing, nausea, and sweating. For many having this anxiety will turn into a panic attack. These symptoms of anxiety can often lead to embarrassment for the person that has social anxiety. Some people that have social anxiety disorder are comfortable being only with close family and friends. Others people with social anxiety only fear certain social situations. Some people become anxious when they are dealing with people in higher positions such as their boss.

Speaking in public is a common fear of people with social anxiety disorder. Other fears can be eating in restaurants, using public restrooms, and using telephones. People that have social anxiety disorder worry for days and sometimes weeks before going to a social situation that they are fearing. The disorder may become severe and can interfere with work or other events that you may have in your life. There are many people that have social anxiety disorder. Women can be more likely then men to have social anxiety disorder. Social anxiety disorder usually will start at a early age. You can be shy and still not experience the same intense anxiety that people do with social anxiety disorder. Shy people usually do not avoid certain social situations like people that have social anxiety disorders. Social anxiety disorder can overtake someone's life if they allow it to.

The 4 Types of Anxiety Disorders

All kinds of anxiety and panic attacks can be broadly categorized into 4 types of anxiety disorders. Knowing what they are will allow you to pinpoint and treat the root cause of your anxiety and eliminate it for good.

Anxiety Disorders

1) Spontaneous anxiety

People suffering from this can experience panic attacks anywhere, at anytime; regardless of location and time. It does not have to occur only in public places, it might also happen at home.

2) Situational or phobic anxiety

This type of anxiety attack is set off whenever a particular situation happens, or when the person is at a particular place. The most common example for this is whenever a person goes on stage to give a speech, and is suddenly faced with an inexplicable fear that prevents him from delivering that speech properly. It can also happen when the person is near an auditorium where he or she have previously experienced a similar panic attack.

3) Anticipatory anxiety

This occurs when the person is 'expecting' something to happen, or when he or she is worried that something 'might' occur. The anticipation itself is enough to set off a chain of panic reactions in your mind which triggers a panic attack.

4) Involuntary anxiety

This kind of anxiety attack occurs by itself, without precedence from spontaneous, situational or anticipatory anxiety.

Knowing what kind of anxiety disorders you frequently experience isn't enough, you also need to know the right information, help and support in order to get rid of it once and for all.

Compare and Contrast the Anxiety Disorder That Afflicted Freud and Tesla

Sigmund Freud (1856-1939)

Freud developed and taught psychoanalysis, which is a form of psychotherapy. Psychoanalysis is associated with the couch, the note pad and the silent listener. Contrary to popular belief, Freud was not the father of psychiatry. Sigmund Freud suffered from Panic Disorder at the time when he wrote his famous papers on anxiety neurosis. He had symptoms of an Anxiety Disorder and worried a great deal about his 'spells'. He had many medical evaluations for them. Nothing of a serious medical nature could be found wrong with him. He was told that his symptoms were 'nervous' in origin. Freud was not satisfied with what he was told. In his quest for a fuller explanation, he searched for a psychological cause. He built an elaborate model based on psychology of the mind and the role of internal conflicts in causing and maintaining anxiety. This model has preoccupied everyone studying anxiety for most of the century.

Nikola Tesla (1856-1943)

Tesla was a genius and perhaps the greatest inventor the world has ever known. He invented a device to harness alternating electrical current, radio, fluorescent lighting, the bladeless turbine, developed the fundamentals of robotics, computers and missile science. Many of the "modern conveniences of life" are a result of Tesla's inventions.

At 5 years of age, following death of his older brother, he developed many phobias and compulsions and in general became a "perfectionist" - subjecting himself to iron discipline in order to excel. He was also plagued by panic attack - like symptoms; strong flashes of light that marred the sight of real objects and "shooting flames" through the body. The intensity seemed to increase as he got older.

"This caused me great discomfort and anxiety", said Tesla, "none of the students of psychology or physiology whom I have consulted could ever explain satisfactorily these phenomena ..."

Severe Social Anxiety - Symptoms and Cures

Social anxiety disorder (SAD) is an issue that can't just destroy person's social life, but also it can leave a person who is suffering it out from many financial and educational opportunities. Severe social anxiety is just a higher level of social anxiety disorder and sufferers of severe SAD have stronger symptoms. Luckily every case of SAD can be cured so if you're suffering severe social anxiety, don't worry - there is a cure for you.

Like normal SAD sufferers, people who suffer severe social anxiety have the same symptoms, like constant avoiding social situations because of fear of doing or saying something wrong, being afraid that others can see their physical symptoms like blushing or shaking.

Because of fear of making themselves look bad, people who suffer it stay away from public places like malls or restaurants. At school and also many jobs require people to do live speeches or presentations - this is something that is really hard for people with SAD. In many cases they are actually afraid of going in front of many people even if it's days or weeks away. Main cause is actually fear of doing something wrong, being prepared to fail will make it more likely to happen, so thinking negative thoughts before going in front of public is something that you should avoid, try analyzing your thoughts instead, think why are you afraid of doing something wrong and how can you be sure that you will - using this method can actually help you.

One of the biggest problems that some severe social anxiety sufferers have is writing while somebody is observing them. What they're usually afraid of is that people are judging their handwriting or how they're holding the pen. This problem can make working at almost any job very hard.

Another symptom that some people with severe SAD are facing is going to public restrooms or urinating while somebody is near. An easy thing that can help you is just flushing the toilet. If you're looking for a more effective cure for this problem you can try hypnosis or psychotherapy.

These are just some problems that people with severe social anxiety face, as every person is unique symptoms can vary, so if you have a symptom that was not listed, there is no need to worry.

If you suffer SAD I highly recommend you to take action now, even if you have tried overcoming it, maybe you didn't find a good method or maybe if you went to therapies your therapist was not qualified for SAD - this is actually pretty common, and people often get bad suggestions. If you don't want to go to therapies then social anxiety can be cured on your own, all you need is good guide that would help you to get rid of all your symptoms step by step.

Anxiety In Girls

Girls these days are stressing out: according to the Anxiety Disorders Association of America (ADAA), women are twice as likely as men to have an anxiety disorder. Join us as we ask some questions with Erin Munroe, author of The Anxiety Workbook for Girls.

AiT: We had a chance to check out your book, The Anxiety Workbook for Girls (Fairview Press), did we see it correctly that you said Anxiety rocks?!?! Tell us more:

EM: Well, SOMETIMES it rocks! Sometimes it stinks! But when I was talking about anxiety rocking I was talking about times that anxiety is actually helpful. If we didn't get a little anxious about things like doing well in school, playing well on the field, or maintaining good social relationships, we wouldn't be very motivated to be successful in these areas. This type of anxiety could probably be explained as "excitement" in some folks. It isn't the type of anxiety that stops you in your tracks, it is a motivating and exciting type of anxiety.

AiT: What are some pressures you feel add to girls' lives today that may add to anxiety and stress?

EM: Ugh, I thought it was bad when I was growing up, but kids these days really do have it tougher than we did, and it doesn't really seem to be getting any easier. The high stakes testing in many school districts creates nervous nellies across the board. The pressure to perform in any activity instead of just doing it for fun is another area where girls have it tougher these days. There was a time you could just doodle or kick a ball around just to enjoy the activity. Now you need to be the best doodler so a high school or college can say, "You are talented, we want you!" We have done a great job of taking the joy out of activities and packed them with stress inducing pressures.

Another area I think makes life more difficult for everyone is that we are constantly "on". There is little to no down time for anyone - cell phones, itouch, ipad, the internet, it is really crazy. I encourage families to have a period each day where everything is off, and everyone can relax, but it is really difficult to get them to follow through - the kids are usually better at it, which means we as adults are sending super confusing and stressed out messages to our kids.

AiT: How do we know if it is really an anxiety disorder, and not just normal worry?

EM: I really feel as though the moment someone's "worry" starts to impact his or her regular routine it is time to see someone about anxiety. So if you are generally nervous about tests, but you sleep fine, can eat breakfast, and can think about your life the way you would any other day - fine. The moment you notice your sleep is disrupted, you can't eat, your can't think about anything but the test, or you notice any other changes in functioning it is time to check in with someone. This doesn't mean you have an anxiety disorder, but it does mean you could use some help in managing your worry.

AiT: What are some of your favorite recommendations for girls to de-stress?

EM: I love getting girls to move their bodies and laugh. Finding a great yoga class, trying to run with a friend. I find that it is most helpful when you really stink at the activity because then you end up totally giggling at yourself or with your friend. I also find music extremely helpful for many - just watch what type of music you are listening to - you don't want it to be something that makes you sad, you want it to be something that is soothing or makes you feel happy and energetic.

AiT: When is it time to get professional help?

EM: Very similar to knowing when you have crossed a line with worry, you need to get professional help as soon as your anxiety is affecting you in other areas of your life. And I think it is important to recognize that you might not need professional help for a long time, maybe just a few visits with a counselor or with your primary care doctor is what you need to get your worries out in the open and learn some stress management techniques. Also, when it is addressed by parents and guardians, many kids feel a ton better just knowing they are not in it alone and have people to talk to.

Erin Munroe is the author of "The Everything Guide to Stepparenting", technically reviewed by Irene Levine, PhD, and published by Adams Media. She has also authored "The Anxiety Workbook for Girls" for Fairview Press (July, 2010), and "When Big Issues Happen to Little Girls" for HCI (December, 2010). Currently Erin works as a School Adjustment Counselro in Dorchester, MA and as a Licensed Mental Health Counselor at a Community Health Center where she sees children, adolescents, and families experiencing a range of issues, including trauma, substance abuse, depression, anxiety, attention deficit disorders, adjustment disorders, and more. Erin has been working in the mental health field since 2001 and has primarily worked with adolescents in schools as a licensed School Guidance Counselor and Adjustment Counselor and outside of school as a Licensed Mental Health Counselor. Erin is also a stepmom, a mom, a dog owner, a runner, reader, baker, and yoga lover. She was super duper anxious when as a kid and still uses all the stress management tools that are in the book (Seriously!!).

Panic Anxiety Attack - Top Ten Myths About Anxiety and Panic Disorders

Anxiety and panic disorders are yet to be fully understood. So it's no surprise that there are tons of myths out their surrounding anxiety and panic disorders. Knowing the facts from the fallacies is important. One need not exacerbate a panic anxiety attack by believing in myths. Below are details and information regarding the ten most-common myths people have about panic disorders:

Myth #    1: "Schizophrenia Causes Panic Disorders"

Not true. During these attacks people may feel like they are going crazy, but this is just a response to the situation. Schizophrenia, is an advanced form of psychosis, panic disorders are not.

Myth #    2: "You lose total control during a Panic Attack"

This is false. They may think that they are 'losing control' but it never comes to a point where people suffering panic attacks actually lose control.

Myth #    3: "Panic Attacks are deadly"

No. It may seem like that for someone having an attack but it's just the body's natural defensive reaction to (an exaggerated) perception of threat or danger. Being a natural body response, these attacks cannot kill.

Myth #    4: "Panic Attacks are all in the mind"

True. The majority of panic disorders stem from negative mindsets, nurturing anxious thoughts, and phobias. When a trigger (an object, a person, situation, or fear of another panic attack) occurs people with panic disorders tend to immediately exaggerate that trigger in their minds. This can lead to panic attacks, which sometimes turn into a vicious cycle.

Myth #    5: "A Panic Anxiety Attack can happen to anyone, at anytime, anywhere"

True. However, those suffering from some other forms of Anxiety Disorder (e.g. General Anxiety Disorder or GAD) are at a bigger risk of having one. Cumulative stress, heavy emotional disturbance, major life changes and negative thinking can all cause panic attacks.

Myth #    6: "Heart problems cause attacks"

Not necessarily true. Recent studies have shown a link between mitral valve prolapse and panic attacks. Although symptoms of panic attacks are similar to heart attacks, that doesn't make it the reason why panic attacks occur.

Myth #    7: "Substance abuse causes attacks"

True. Smoking increases the likelihood of panic disorders, especially among the youth. Alcoholism, sedative abuse, and addiction to nicotine may also trigger panic attacks.

Myth #    8: "A Panic Anxiety Attack is not really an illness"

The National Institute of Mental Health begs to differ. Panic disorder is a real and serious illness, afflicting 6.8 million Americans today. If left untreated, this can seriously debilitate and affect someone's life.

Myth #    9: "If your parents and grandparents had Panic Disorder, you will too"

True. Genetics has been linked to causing panic disorders that can span generations. However, this is just one of its many known causes and is not the sole basis for diagnosing this disorder.

Myth #    10: "There are no cures for Panic Attacks"

People respond differently to treatments. What might work for some may not be applicable to others. This is why it's important to seek professional help to determine the right treatment program for the individual.

The Most Common Physical Symptoms of Anxiety Disorder

If you are suffering from anxiety disorder, than you are not the only one. There are lot of common physical symptoms of anxiety many people experience now days and it is considered one of the popular diagnosis of this century. So what is causing so much anxiety in people and how to get over it.

Most likely cause of anxiety is the fact that the life's pressure of too many demands. Too many bills to pay, too much work and not enough time to finish all of it and basically not enough time to relax.

One of the most likely cause of physical symptoms of anxiety disorder is the bad way of life. Meaning, over stressed, over worked and not leading a healthy life. The anxiety disorders affect first the mind than it moves onto the body. Those who exercise regularly are not going to have as many issues compare do the people who do exercise regularly.

As mentioned before, it affects your mind and you cannot seem to get rid of the problem as easily. Most never can see the way out of the situation and most never seek the help of professionals until it is time to get some medication into them. Don't let it get that far. And if you are at that point, seek the professional help. That is why they are there.

So when is the time: If you are experiencing sweaty palms, or nausea, butterflies, and unexpected stomachaches this is a light form of anxiety issues. With getting rid of the coffee, alcohol, and stress out of your life, replacing it with herbs and healthy diet, while exercising. This should help a lot with the issue. However, if you physical symptoms are a lot more extreme such as the rapid pounding of the heart, sweating, stomach upset or faintness, frequent urination or diarrhea, out of breath, tremors and twitches, muscle tension, headaches, fatigue and insomnia, than you should contact your Dr.

One thing that most people think is that if that do go to see their Dr. they will be diagnosed as "crazy". You can put any other word into it, but that is the one that really scares most people. Don't be scared as you are not the only one with this issue. Out of 3 people who visit their Dr. today have this same problem, they are just ahead of you in seeking professional help.

But of course, as mentioned before, you can personally do few things to help yourself get rid of the problem. You don't have to be dependent on the medication. You just need to get rid of the bad habits in your life and add some good and healthy for your body and soul. These are the healthy diet full of fruits and vegetables, relaxing tea's, and some great cardio exercise to reduce stress in order to get rid of the physical symptoms of anxiety disorder.

Panic Disorder Treatment - The Best Treatment For Panic Disorder

Panic Disorder is caused as a result of severe levels of anxiety that had gone beyond control. People experiencing panic disorder normally experience a feeling of having an heart attack, nervousness, palpitations, increased heart rate and sweating, dizziness etc. The best treatment for panic disorders would be the ones that treat the root cause of panic disorder so that you achieve a permanent cure from panic disorders and anxiety related disorders.

Panic Disorders Treatment:

Medications are not the right way to treat panic disorders. When you go to a doctor, they label your condition as GAD (General Anxiety Disorder) and treat you with drugs and anti-depressants like Xanax, valium, Prozac etc. While this may give you a temporary relief from the symptoms of panic disorder, it does nothing to treat the root cause. Further, these drugs have terrible side effects and make you addictive. After a point, people start realizing that more anxiety and stress is caused by these drugs than the actual panic disorder itself. In fact, you would have realized that often times; you find yourself more stressed and anxious about experiencing a panic attack than the pain of an actual panic attack when it occurs.

So what is the Best Treatment for Panic Disorders?

The right treatment for panic disorders would involve meeting the panic disorders in its tracks by addressing the root cause of the problem. It is important to understand that panic disorders or panic attacks are a mental condition and have nothing to do with the body. Normally, anxiety is a useful protective phenomenon that protects us by stimulating the fight/flight condition in our body thus avoiding possible danger.

Sometimes, our mind begins to perceive relatively safe situations to be the ones that are possible dangers and triggers the physical sensations like increased heart rate, palpitations etc. The situation could be speaking in front of a crowd, being in a crowded street or boarding a flight etc. For some reason, due to past experience or the way the mind associates and connects situations, the fight/flight signals are triggered. When these sensations go out of control, it results in panic disorder.

Once you understand that it is a mental condition which needs treatment, you can use the One Move Method described in Panicaway Program to get rid of your panic attacks forever.

ADHD and Anxiety Disorders - Looking For Similarities

It may or may not come as a surprise that ADHD and anxiety disorders have a number of similarities. On the other hand they have their differences as well. In this informational article "ADHD and Anxiety - Looking for Similarities" we will first review attention deficit hyperactivity disorder and then explore the similarities between these two very common conditions.

ADHD is a biological disorder of the brain involving the neurotransmitter hormones dopamine and norepinephrine. The primary symptoms of ADHD are the inability to focus, inability to control impulsive behaviors and emotions, and hyperactivity or restlessness. Adults with the condition have a low threshold for frustration and may become irritated easily. A person with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder may be considered a "daydreamer" or experience problems with short term memory and be thought of as forgetful. Due to the fact that this condition is at least, in some part biological, willpower alone will not be enough to counteract the disorder.

Part of the reason attention deficit hyperactivity disorder is so difficult to diagnose is because the primary symptoms of inattention, distraction, impulsivity, and restlessness/hyperactivity are so widely seen in other condition such as anxiety disorders. 

If a person has an anxiety disorder chances are they have a considerable, relentless fear or concern that occupies their mind and may be difficult if not impossible to control. Anxiety disorders can be sliced and diced into numerous different categories but the three that most closely resemble ADHD are:

*Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD): GAD is a disorder characterized by a large number of unmanageable worries that don't go away by themselves and last for a minimum or six months. The worries causing this condition are almost always numerous and broad in scope.

*Social Phobia: Have you ever known anyone who was scared stiff to interact with others because of the fear of embarrassment. This person very well may be struggling with social phobia.

*Specific Phobia: A specific phobia zeros in on one particular source of extreme anxiety. Examples would be fear of heights, fear of spiders, or fear of germs. 

Looking for similarities

First there seems to be a biological similarity with the brain messenger dopamine. Next many people with these forms of anxiety disorders experience symptoms which are very much like those of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder such as hyperactivity, restlessness, impulsivity, excessive talking, disorganized thinking, irritability, sleep problems, and forgetfulness.

Looking at the similarities of ADHD and anxiety disorder may make you ponder as to how they could ever be diagnosed separately. The big difference in the two is that while the symptoms may be the same most anxiety disorder come on rapidly and dissipate rapidly with the exception of generalized anxiety disorder. For this reason it is not unusual to get a dual diagnosis of GAD and ADHD. 

Another notable similarity is that many people with ADHD also have at least some mild anxiety. It is unclear whether the anxiety is brought about by the condition or whether it coexists on its own with the condition.  

In summary, it appears that ADHD and anxiety are closely linked both from a biological point of view and a symptomatic viewpoint. There are many ways to treat these conditions but one of the most popular natural options is homeopathy. Homeopathic remedies for ADHD have been shown to be a safe and effective way to improve focus, reduce impulsive behaviors, and dampen hyperactive behavior naturally. They are safe for all ages and are an option worth considering.

How Do You Know If You Have An Anxiety Disorder Or Not?

Will Knowing You Have An Anxiety Disorder Help Treat It?

Understanding exactly what an anxiety disorder is is critical to knowing whether you have an anxiety disorder or are just dealing with a case of anxiety that would be considered as normal. There are times where it is normal to feel anxiety, as anxiety is your body's natural response against danger, a type of alarm that will go off when you are facing a challenging or even dangerous situation. Some such examples where feeling anxiety is normal would include the following events:

• Preparing for a major exam or presentation.


• Preparing to go in for surgery.


• Heading to the chapel to get married.


• Going out on your first date in a while.


• Etc.

However, if worries and fears are preventing you from living the life that you want to live, this could be a sign that you are suffering from an anxiety disorder. If the worries and fears are so overwhelming that your relationships and activities are affected by them, that is definitely a sign that can indicate that you are suffering from an anxiety disorder. The emotional symptoms of anxiety include the following signs:

• Trouble concentrating


• Feeling tense and jumpy


• Feelings of apprehension or dread


• Feeling like your mind has gone blank


• Restlessness


• Anticipating the worst


• Watching for signs of danger


• Irritability

There are also physical symptoms of anxiety that can manifest themselves, including the following signs:

• Pounding heart


• Twitches and tremors


• Headaches


• Insomnia


• Fatigue


• Stomach upset or dizziness


• Shortness of breath


• Muscle tension


• Frequent urination or diarrhea


• Sweating

These numerous physical symptoms can cause those suffering with an anxiety disorder to make numerous trips to their doctor or hospital because they believe that they are suffering from a medical condition. Because it's not easy to specifically identify an anxiety disorder, it could take several trips to definitively determine that a person is suffering from an anxiety disorder. Additionally, anxiety disorders are difficult to definitively diagnose because they can show different symptoms in different people. For instance, one person may deal with intense anxiety attacks, while another person only feels apprehension at a party with many people; otherwise, that person is fine. Other people may deal with a constant state of tension and worry.

Anxiety attacks (known as "panic attacks" in mental health circles) are instances of intense panic or fear. They usually occur suddenly and without warning. There can be an obvious trigger, such as a presentation that you have to give in 10 minutes, but often, there is no obvious trigger that brings on these anxiety attacks.

Anxiety attacks that come from disorders will usually peak within 10 minutes and not usually last more than 30 minutes. However, during that time period, the person may feel as if he/she is going to die or to totally lose control. Some people feel as if they're going to have a heart attack when they experience an anxiety attack. Even after the anxiety attack passes, the person may be fearful of another one, especially if he/she is in a public place where help isn't readily available or if he/she can't easily escape from the area. There are several symptoms of anxiety attacks that you can watch out for, including the following symptoms:

• Heart palpitations or chest pain


• Feeling like you're going to pass out


• Hyperventilation


• Hot flashes or chills


• A surge of overwhelming panic


• Feeling detached or unreal


• Feeling of losing control or going crazy


• Shaking or trembling


• Nausea or stomach cramps


• Having trouble breathing or a choking sensation

It is not easy to determine whether a person has an anxiety disorder because having anxiety at times is normal and people who do have anxiety disorders will often display different symptoms. By paying attention to the emotional and physical symptoms of the anxiety attacks caused by an anxiety disorder, you can identify whether you truly have an anxiety disorder so that you can determine what options you have to effectively treat your anxiety.

Generalized Anxiety Disorder Treatment - Most Effective Treatments

It is but normal to be anxious and fear something. But when it starts to regularly overwhelm you, it must be the alleged generalized anxiety disorder. With that, generalized anxiety disorder treatment is a remedy which must be considered. GAD is a disorder in which someone can experience overpowering fear or anxiety caused by upsetting thoughts.

Children and adolescents can be affected by the generalized anxiety but adults likewise experience it. A person experiencing GAD have worrisome thoughts which can turn into a big inhibition on his part as well as finding it difficult to keep working, socializing, maintaining an optimal health and relaxing. If all of them are evident, thinking of possible treatment for anxiety becomes essential.

In most instances, individuals with GAD cannot competently control physiological and psychosomatic signs they experience. They have attentiveness complications, incapacity to sleep, an overpowering feeling of fear and even gastrointestinal complications. Their fears can be associated with job performance, social interaction, lack of control, rejection and other personal issues.

For those symptoms, generalized anxiety disorder treatment must be sought right away so that immediate healing is promoted. Even though many patients can get through it by doing exercises recommended for stress reduction, stress schemes, build healthy lifestyle alterations or exercise routines to promote relaxation, most of the GAD sufferers necessitate professional help. Well, in generally, you should not ignore such manifestations to avoid it to elevate into a more serious illness later.

Seeking treatment for anxiety disorder can introduce beneficial clinical healing generally intended to control GAD. The treatment entails two primary approaches such as medication treatment and elemental cognitive therapy.

When it comes to generalized anxiety disorder treatment, the cognitive management is a therapy which deals on the education of a person with generalized anxiety disorder and his circumstance. This approach likewise advises the patient to observe every attack. Also, it provides the person with coping methods and teaches him how his behavior change may lower his GAD attacks.

The second approach, the medication treatment sessions, is introduced to patient for the purpose of reducing the patient's depression as well as normalizing neurotransmitters in the brain such as the serotonin and calming down constant thoughts. For anyone suffering from this disorder, looking for the right generalized anxiety disorder treatment will incontestably assist in managing and in getting over the dark and anxious thoughts that can distress the mind and life as a whole.

Panic Attack Anxiety Disorder - Why It's a Challenge For Your Doctor

Those who suffer from panic attack anxiety disorder present somewhat of a challenge for their doctors. Because symptoms from these types of disorders rarely last longer than a few minutes they are pretty much impossible for a doctor to monitor and study. What a doctor will be able to see in a patient with anxiety issues will be their extreme concern about having future attacks and their intense desire to avoid situations they believe are causing their issues.

Generally, panic issues are classified as a disorder once a person suffers two or more panic attacks in a relatively short period of time and then goes at least a month or so with excessive fears that more attacks will occur. There is no magic formula for how often panic attacks will happen. Some will have attacks once a day or once a week for months at a time while others may have a short period of time where they will suffer many attacks and then not suffer another for weeks or even longer.

So doctors face a challenge in dealing with patients with these disorders; however, there are several courses of treatment the doctor will pursue. One of these courses will be psychotherapy.

Exposure therapy is a form of behavioral therapy under the umbrella of psychotherapy. This method involves purposely exposing a person to the stimulant that provokes their attacks. Upon repeated exposure to the source of their fears, many patients will become desensitized to the stimulant and become more and more comfortable when confronted with that stimulant.

There are two approaches generally used with exposure therapy. The first is to gradually expose the person to the source of their fear which will give the person more of an ability to control the process in both length of time and the degree of their exposure to their particular stimulant. The second approach involves inundating the person with their stimulant for an hour or more at a time without relief.

The goal of both of these methods is to allow the person to become more accustomed and comfortable with their fears and to realize they can be exposed to their stimulant without experiencing their panic symptoms.

There is another approach called "systematic desensitization". This method marries relaxation techniques with slow, but steady, exposure to their stimulant with the hopeful result of allowing a patient to become more and more comfortable when exposed to the source of their anxiety.

Cognitive behavioral therapy is also often used to treat panic attack anxiety disorder. This type of therapy strives to show patients there is no need to avoid the settings or circumstances that cause their anxiety by helping them to realize there is no real basis for their fears. This method also involves using relaxation techniques like breathing exercises, yoga or meditation.

Now you have a basic understanding of some of the challenges facing doctors as they strive to treat panic attack anxiety disorder and some of the tools they have to help patients cope with these issues.

Controlling Anxiety Disorders

Anxiety disorder afflicts a lot of individuals. It is very important for these individuals to learn about controlling anxiety disorders because these have the ability to debilitate and inhibit usual and normal functions of everyday life. Proper treatment for controlling anxiety disorders must be administered for continued uncompromised quality of life.

Cognitive therapy is the most common treatment for anxiety disorders. This entails the deconstruction and reconstruction of an individual's cognitive processes to be able to let go of the negative thought processes that trigger the attacks of an anxiety disorder.

However, to be able to administer treatment properly, one may need aid in controlling anxiety disorders long enough to fully appreciate the process of treatment. Usually, there are some prescription drugs in the form of anti-depressants and the like that inhibit the emotions needed in controlling anxiety disorders. This then helps stave off anxiety disorders and allows time for cognitive therapy treatment.

However, one can opt not to take prescription drugs as a means of controlling anxiety disorders. One instead can take a look at and consider alternative healing methods such as ayuderva, aromatherapy and the like. These alternative methods of controlling anxiety disorders don't have the endorsement of traditional medicine.

Despite this fact however, more and more individuals afflicted with anxiety disorders look to alternative methods for a natural solution to their problem. For instance, instead of taking an anti-depressant, some individuals opt to do aromatherapy to calm emotions down and put oneself in a better frame of mind and being.

If the alternative healing method proves successful in alleviating the onslaught of anxiety disorder attacks, this does not mean that one is healed. Anxiety disorders are often times chronic and in some cases, individuals go into remission. This is why it is important to do more than just treat the symptoms and instead go through real therapy that does more than stave off anxiety attacks.

Different Types of Anxiety Disorders Explained

There is more than just one type of anxiety disorder and many people do not realize that. This article will briefly explain some of the most common types of anxiety disorders so that you will be better able to identify if you or a loved one is suffering from an anxiety disorder and if so, which one. Take your time to look over all of these disorders if you are interested in learning more about them. You may even find out something that you did not know.

The first type of anxiety disorder is generalized anxiety disorder. This is actually relatively common and it is the most common for many older adults. Generalized anxiety disorder is defined by the excessive worry about anything. The person that is suffering from this type of anxiety will focus on everyday things and activities and worry about them all day long. This worry and concern can not be controlled and may take over the person's life. It may be very difficult to function without the worry and anxiety.

The next type of anxiety disorder that may present itself is panic attacks or panic disorders. This is usually seen by an increase fear and intense worry that simply comes out of nowhere. Many people may not be able to identify a trigger to these attacks but he or she may begin to sweat, become confused, tremble or even have trouble breathing. Panic attacks can be very frightening for the individual that is suffering from them and they may not be able to control them because they do not know when they are going to happen.

Phobias are also placed under anxiety disorders. Phobias are defined as an intense fear of something or an object. Some people may even have a phobia of a bodily fluid. The fear of these places or objects creates panic for the person when they are expected to be around their fear. There are a lot of different phobias that people may suffer from and they need to be worked through just like any other type of anxiety disorder if the individual wants to get relief from them.

Social anxiety disorder is the fear of being in a public place or being around a large group of people. The person that is suffering from this type of anxiety disorder may be afraid that he or she will be scrutinized or embarrassed in the public place or in front of other people. These individuals may even hide away from others and have a hard time entering public places. These thoughts need to be challenged and the person needs to work through their thoughts and determine where their inaccurate beliefs are coming from. This may take a lot of time and effort on the part of the patient as they learn to identify where this fear comes from and they work to overcome it.

Obsessive compulsive disorder is another anxiety disorder that may be seen. This is where an individual feels that he or she needs to complete a pattern in order to avoid a negative consequence. They believe that the consequence is directly related to the pattern when, in reality, no connection exists. This can be very difficult to work through because of the person's beliefs. The obsession or compulsion may over take the person's life and it may be difficult to function because of it.

If you believe that you or someone you love is suffering from an anxiety disorder you need to get help. Talk to your doctor about the symptoms so that an accurate diagnosis can be made. This is the first step towards treatment. Educate yourself about the disorder and learn all that you can in order to work towards decreasing your symptoms and getting back to your normal life.

Remember that you will need to do some work in order to feel better. You will not be able to get over your anxiety if you are not willing to take the steps to improve your life. Many people want to take a pill and make it all go away. This is often not the case. There are non medication approaches to fighting anxiety and start feeling better. This really is the best thing you can do to feel better.

Treating Anxiety Disorders - What is Right For You?

Effective Methods Used in Treating Anxiety Disorders

None of us are strangers to stress and anxiety. You can sometimes feel overwhelmed with worry and fear and experience an anxiety attack when things such as an important deadline or a failing grade in school happen. When they do, your body reacts physically by increasing your heart rate, dilating your pupils, hyper-activating your glands to sweat more and putting your brain on overdrive. These physical symptoms go away after you have resolved the problem or your source of stress has gone away.

Sometimes, though, even if the problem has passed or there is no reason to worry or stress, you still might get a severe panic attack. When this happens and stress and anxiety start to rule your life and affecting the people around you, your anxiety and stress might be developing into a serious disorder.

There are many people all over the world who have suffered from anxiety disorders but have been helped by effective methods used in treating anxiety disorders. Most doctors and specialists look at the causes of the anxiety disorder first before takings steps in treating the patient. When the cause has been identified, several treatments may be given to help you cope with your anxiety attacks in a healthier way.

1. Medication. There are times when your anxiety attack or emotional distress over simple things is caused by chemical imbalances in the brain. Your brain has thousands of neurotransmitters, which are responsible for sending signals from your brain to the rest of your body. Some of these neurotransmitters, like serotonin, are in charge of emotions such as pain, joy, anger and pleasure. When the levels of these neurotransmitters are not balanced, you may experience severe panic attacks or you may develop anxiety disorders. Medicine such as Tricyclic Antidepressants, Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors and Benzodiazepines regulate the neurotransmitters in your brain to decrease the severity and lessen the frequency of your anxiety attacks.

2. Therapy. Most of the time, therapy is given in combination with medication as an effective dual method in treating anxiety disorders. The type of therapy most often used is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, where doctors teach you how to look at life and its many challenges with a more positive outlook. This type of therapy aims to change your way of thinking and how you cope with stress and anxiety. Some doctors even teach you meditation and breathing techniques to help you relax more easily.

3. Diet. Although medication and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy are great tools in treating anxiety disorders, eating healthily can also help you cope with your anxiety attacks and lessen your stress. There are certain foods that are stimulants, such as coffee, soda and chocolate and these should be avoided if possible. Stimulants, like caffeine, can make anxiety symptoms increase. Sugar should also be avoided since this can stress the body (that is why we refer to the giddy feeling after eating sugar as a "sugar high") and then make it crash back down. It's advised to avoid carbohydrates and complex sugars and trade these for whole grain food and unrefined sugar.

4. Exercise. Jogging, yoga and even brisk walking can increase your body's flow of oxygen and cause your brain to release endorphins--hormones that can make you feel satisfied and pleased. When you exercise, you can also be distracted from whatever is causing your worries or anxiety.

If you regularly experience anxiety attacks and let worry and fear affect your life, take a step back and consider if your excess stress is developing into a serious anxiety disorder. Don't let this get in the way of your life-there are many different methods used in treating anxiety disorders. With medication, therapy, proper diet and exercise, you can stop worrying about worrying too much!