Anxiety and Panic Disorder - Denver Mind and Wellness

Anxiety

Anxiety is a normal emotion that all of us experience and is part of the “fight or flight” survival mechanism. For example, if we are being attacked by a bear, this survival mechanism comes into play. However, this natural mechanism can sometimes malfunction. When this happens, it impacts our daily life negatively and becomes a health issue. Symptoms common to individuals suffering from various anxiety disorders include fatigue, impaired concentration, sleep disturbances, irritability, muscle tension, and generalized fear or worry.

There are two defining symptoms shared by all types of anxiety disorders, and these are fear and worry.

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Panic Disorder

This condition is characterized by recurring panic attacks. Common symptoms of a panic attack
include racing heart, trembling, nausea, sweating, shortness of breath, dizziness, chest pain, tingling or numbness, hot flushes, and fear of dying. Panic attacks occur suddenly and are usually accompanied by intense fear or discomfort. They reach a peak within minutes but can last hours. Panic disorder is relatively common and affects an estimated 1 in 75 people. People with panic disorder often live in fear and anxiety of when the next attack will happen.

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