Anxiety is often described as having cognitive, somatic, emotional, and behavioral components (Seligman, Walker & Rosenhan, 2001). Anxiety is an unpleasant state that involves a complex combination of emotions that include fear, apprehension, and worry. Anxiety disorders are debilitating and sometimes frightening conditions which cause sufferersto physically and emotionally withdraw for self preservation. Anxiety and worry can appear at any time; day or night.

Panic

Panic disorder can be diagnosed when several apparently spontaneous attacks lead to a persistent concern about future attacks. Panic attacks can be both bewildering and terrifying, but they're not unusual. Panic attacks can come on suddenly and cause alarming physical symptoms that usually don't posea serious threat. Panic attacks can lead to phobias if they aren't treated.

Treatment

Treatment can involve medicines, therapy or both. Treatment may begin by addressing "readiness" issues or "treatment interfering behaviors". Effective treatments for anxiety disorders are available, and research is yielding new, improved therapies that can help most people with anxiety disorders lead productive, fulfilling lives. People who have full-blown, repeated panic attacks can become very disabled by their condition and should seek treatment before they start to avoid places or situations where panic attacks have occurred. With proper treatment, many people with anxiety disorders can lead normal, fulfilling lives. People with anxiety disorders who have already received treatment should tell their current doctor about that treatment in detail.

Anxiety disorders are often debilitating chronic conditions, which can be present from an early age or begin suddenly after a triggering event. Anxiety experienced when there is no threat or danger present is called inappropriate anxiety. Anxiety is a normal response to danger. Anxiety is appropriate when and if there is something present to fear.