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Anxiety is a natural human response to stress — it’s a feeling of fear, worry, or unease about what’s to come.

Everyone experiences anxiety sometimes, like before an exam, job interview, or big decision. In small doses, anxiety can even be helpful — it can keep you alert and motivated.

However, when anxiety becomes excessive, persistent, or interferes with daily life, it may be part of an anxiety disorder.

Here’s a breakdown:

🌿 Normal Anxiety

Temporary and tied to a specific situation (like public speaking). Goes away once the situation passes. Doesn’t prevent you from functioning normally.

⚠️ Anxiety Disorder

Anxiety occurs frequently or intensely, even without a clear cause. Hard to control or calm down. Interferes with daily activities, work, or relationships.

💭 Common Symptoms

Physical: rapid heartbeat, sweating, trembling, shortness of breath, stomach upset.

Emotional: fear, dread, restlessness, irritability.

Cognitive: racing thoughts, difficulty concentrating, expecting the worst.

🧠 Types of Anxiety Disorders

Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD): ongoing worry about many areas of life.

Panic Disorder: sudden attacks of intense fear (panic attacks).

Social Anxiety Disorder: fear of being judged or embarrassed in social settings.

Phobias: intense fear of specific objects or situations (like heights, flying, or spiders).

Separation Anxiety or Selective Mutism: more common in children.

🌸 Treatment and Management Therapy:

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is highly effective. Medication: SSRIs, SNRIs, or other options prescribed by a healthcare professional.

Lifestyle: mindfulness, regular exercise, good sleep, healthy diet, and limiting caffeine or alcohol.