Anxiety is a persistent feeling of dread
Anxiety is the body's way of responding to a potential threat. It continues after the threat (real or imagined) has passed and creates a "persistent feeling of apprehension or dread”.
There are many types of anxiety. It is possible to have more than one of these and to have another mental health condition, such as depression, at the same time. Below are some types of anxiety.
Generalised anxiety
Excessive worry, anxiety and fear even though there may be little or no obvious reason.
Social anxiety
Chronic anxiety and fear related to social interactions, usually resulting in avoidance of any situations where people may judge, evaluate or humiliate you. This includes performance situations such as presentations.
Panic disorder
Recurrent unexpected panic attacks often with physical symptoms such as chest pain, irregular heartbeat, shortness of breath or stomach pains.
Health anxiety
Excessive worry and anxiety that you are or may become seriously ill.
Death anxiety
Fear or negative feelings towards death or dying.
Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
Recurrent, unwanted thoughts, ideas, or sensations (obsessions) that may drive you to repetitive behaviour (compulsions) which only provide temporary relief.
Body-Focused Repetitive Behaviour Problems
Impulse control issues cause a person to compulsively damage their physical appearance or cause physical injury. This includes trichotillomania or hair pulling, skin picking, etc.
