Anxiety Disorders and Related Conditions
Anxiety disorders occur when the brain reacts with excessive worry, fear, or tension, even when there is no immediate threat. These feelings can interfere with daily life, work, school, or relationships. Anxiety disorders can take several forms, each with specific characteristics.
Families or clients may notice:
- Constant worry about small or big issues
- Restlessness, irritability, or tension
- Difficulty sleeping or concentrating
- Physical complaints like stomach pain, headaches, or rapid heartbeat
- Avoiding certain situations due to fear
Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD)
Description: Persistent, excessive worry about everyday things like health, work, or finances, even when there is little reason to worry.
Symptoms:
- Feeling tense, restless, or on edge
- Difficulty concentrating
- Muscle tension or headaches
- Sleep problems
- Irritability or constant unease
Panic Disorder
Description: Recurrent, unexpected panic attacks — sudden waves of intense fear or discomfort, often without warning.
Symptoms:
- Rapid heartbeat, chest pain, or shortness of breath
- Sweating, trembling, or dizziness
- Feeling of losing control or “going crazy”
- Avoiding situations where panic attacks occurred
Social Anxiety Disorder (Social Phobia)
Description: Intense fear of being judged, embarrassed, or scrutinized in social situations.
Symptoms:
- Avoiding social events, parties, or public speaking
- Excessive worry about interacting with others
- Blushing, sweating, trembling, or nausea in social situations
- Feeling self-conscious constantly
Phobias
Description: Extreme fear of specific objects or situations, such as heights, spiders, flying, or medical procedures.
Symptoms:
- Intense anxiety when facing the feared object or situation
- Panic-like reactions
- Avoidance of situations that trigger fear
- Physical reactions like rapid heartbeat, sweating, or dizziness
Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
Description: Repeated, unwanted thoughts (obsessions) causing anxiety, along with repetitive behaviours (compulsions) to relieve that anxiety.
Symptoms:
- Checking things repeatedly (doors, locks)
- Excessive cleaning or hand washing
- Counting, arranging, or repeating actions to feel “safe”
- Distress when rituals are interrupted
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
Description: Anxiety and distress following a traumatic or life-threatening event. The mind may constantly feel on alert for danger.
Symptoms:
- Flashbacks or intrusive memories
- Nightmares and sleep disturbances
- Emotional numbness or withdrawal
- Irritability or sudden anger
- Avoiding reminders of the trauma
Bio-Psycho-Social Approach to Recovery
- Biological (Body): Medication if needed, sleep support, relaxation techniques, and physical health monitoring
- Psychological (Mind): Therapy for coping strategies, stress management, and emotional regulation
- Social (Life & Relationships): Family education, supportive environment, exposure therapy, and rebuilding confidence in social or work situations
At Miracle Rehabilitation Centre, anxiety disorders and related conditions are treated holistically, helping individuals reduce excessive worry, regain control over their emotions, and rebuild confidence and daily functioning.