The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) has three categories for anxiety disorders mainly: Anxiety Disorders, Obsessive Compulsive (OCD) and Related Disorders, and Trauma and Related Disorders. Cleary distinguishing the three from each other though under one domain.

The various types of anxiety disorders include specific phobia, social anxiety disorder, panic disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and generalized anxiety disorder (GAD).

Some of the common symptoms include:

Panic, anxious, fear, and restlessness
Inability to relax or stay calm for long
Cold, sweaty, numb or tingling hands or feet
Sleep disruption
Heart palpitations
Shortness of breath Dry mouth
Nausea
Muscle rigidity
Dizziness

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Recognising that treatment is possible and available is the first most important step in feeling better.

Anxiety disorders are highly treatable. Psychopharmacology and therapy are key combinations when it comes to treating anxiety disorders. Not everybody may require medication but when and if they do, medically assisted treatment (MAT) seem to have better treatment outcomes.

Treatment may take time but with the right combination of MAT, therapeutic techniques, acquiring coping skills and importantly being assigned to the right clinician, anxiety disorders can be arrested and people do achieve the quality of life they look forward to.