Anxiety Definition and Meaning

By Samuel E. Knight


Almost all individuals have experienced anxiousness at some point throughout their life. When excessive worrying begins to interrupt one's health and well-being, however, the person may be diagnosed with a disorder. Anxiety meaning will depend on the kind of condition from which one is suffering, but in general terms, it is a state of apprehension, uneasiness or vexation. Conditions that cause excessive anxiousness include the following:

Generalized anxiety disorder, as its name implies, is a condition that causes one to feel constantly worried, even when there is no justifiable reason for this emotion. Also called GAD, this disorder is not diagnosed unless the person has experienced the symptoms for six consecutive months with no reprieve.

GAD is typically treated with structured therapy designed to help patients recognize and cope with their fears. Medication may also be prescribed for certain individuals. For others, a combination of behavioral therapy and medicine is needed to completely control their symptoms. GAD affects more women than men, although the reason for this is not yet known.

Social phobia is another kind of condition that causes worry and apprehension. Those afflicted with this disorder often become stressed and anxious whenever they must attend a social event. The latter may simply be their work environment, a wedding, party or merely an intimate get together at a public establishment. Such individuals generally do their best to avoid events of this type, as they fear they will be judged by others or do something embarrassing. Counseling is regarded as the most effective treatment for this disorder.

Panic disorder is not the same as GAD or social phobia. Those suffering from this condition experience intense episodes of panic that come on suddenly. These attacks are usually accompanied by dramatic physical symptoms. When a panic attack is underway, the person typically feels as if he or she is going insane, having heart attack, or that death is imminent.

Panic attacks occur suddenly with no warning. Wondering when and where the next attack will occur frequently alters the sufferer's quality of life. Such attacks strike more women than men by 5-1, respectively. The disorder is usually treated with benzodiazepines, which are drugs that slow the nervous system and stop the adrenaline rush that essentially always accompanies a panic attack.

Everyone worries occasionally; however, uneasiness and apprehension should not rule one's life. A broad range of treatments are available to help patients keep their symptoms under control. This is why anyone who feels that he or she may have such a disorder or who desires a more thorough understanding of anxiety meaning and treatment options should schedule an appointment with a health care practitioner.




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