Anxiety is a feeling of fear, dread, and uneasiness that can be a normal reaction to stress
. However, anxiety disorders involve more than temporary worry or fear and can be overwhelming
. Anxiety disorders are the most common of mental disorders and affect nearly 30% of adults at some point in their lives
. Symptoms of anxiety disorders can interfere with daily activities such as job performance, schoolwork, and relationships
. There are several types of anxiety disorders, including generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder, social anxiety disorder, and various phobia-related disorders
. Generalized anxiety disorder involves persistent and excessive worry that interferes with daily activities
. Panic disorder involves sudden feelings of intense anxiety and fear or terror that reach a peak within minutes (panic attacks)
. Social anxiety disorder is an intense, persistent fear of being watched and judged by others
. Specific phobias are characterized by major anxiety when you're exposed to a specific object or situation
. The cause of anxiety is unknown, but factors such as genetics, brain biology and chemistry, stress, and environment may play a role
. Treatment for anxiety disorders can include psychotherapy, medication, or a combination of both
