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.