Anxiety disorders are commonly treated in the United States. According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness, about 40 million adults in the United States have an anxiety disorder, while 7% of children ages 3-17 experience difficulties with anxiety. Common symptoms associated with generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) symptoms include feelings of dread, becoming tense or easily jumpy, irritability/restlessness, constantly watching for danger, shortness of breathing, insomnia, fatigue, tremors, and stomach pains. Various types of anxiety disorders include Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD), Social Anxiety Disorder (SAD), Panic Disorder, Separation Anxiety Disorder, and specific phobias.
Anxiety disorders can partially be caused by genetics or critical stressors in a person’s environment. Psychotherapy, especially cognitive behavioral therapy, can help to relieve anxious symptoms by changing the relationship between a person’s thoughts, feelings, and reactions. Medication can also be helpful in mediating anxious symptoms. For more information on anxiety disorders, please visit the Anxiety and Depression Association of America Understand Anxiety & Depression | Anxiety and Depression Association of America, ADAA.