Main Types of Pathological Anxiety
Pathological anxiety is divided into several types, the most important of which are as follows:
- Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD): This type of anxiety is characterized by excessive and unjustified worry, which is chronic and may occur without a logical or sufficient cause to provoke such intense anxiety.
- Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD): This anxiety disorder is marked by repetitive, irrational, and unjustified thoughts (obsessions) that lead to performing certain behaviors (compulsions), such as repeatedly washing hands or repeatedly checking if doors are locked. Although the person performs these behaviors to calm the intrusive thoughts, the relief is temporary and the thoughts return later.
- Panic Disorder: This type of anxiety leads to repeated panic attacks accompanied by physical symptoms including:
- Chest pain.
- Rapid heartbeat.
- Dizziness.
- Shortness of breath.
- Digestive system disorders.
- Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD): This anxiety disorder may occur after exposure to a trauma or frightening event, or due to the threat of harm. Types of trauma that may lead to this disorder include:
- Natural disasters.
- Wars.
- Traffic accidents.
- Violence or threat thereof.
- Social Anxiety Disorder (SAD): Also known as social phobia, it is characterized by intense anxiety and excessive self-awareness when around others, such as when giving public speeches or even sitting with friends to eat or have coffee.
Treatment of Anxiety
The treatment methods vary depending on the type of anxiety but usually include the following:
- Medication: There are various medication classes used for anxiety disorders, including:
- Antidepressants.
- Sedatives from the benzodiazepine group.
- Beta-blockers.
- Anticonvulsants.
- Antipsychotic medications.
- Psychotherapy: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is one of the most prominent psychotherapeutic methods for anxiety treatment. It helps patients learn how to transform negative thoughts into positive ones after identifying and understanding them.
- Self-treatment: This includes practicing self-help methods that aid in coping with and overcoming psychological stress, such as physical exercise, getting adequate sleep, and practicing meditation. We also recommend downloading the Tawazon app, which contains important information about various types of meditation as well as a collection of guided meditations and podcasts.
