What It Is

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The term “anxiety disorder” is used to refer to psychiatric disorders that involve extreme fear or worry. There are several types of anxiety disorders, such as panic disorder, post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), and social anxiety. Panic disorder is when an individual feels panic at random times, sometimes set off by a trigger. The individual may suffer from a panic attack. Symptoms of a panic attack include: sweating, chest pain, and palpitations. PTSD is anxiety that an individual feels after a traumatic incident. Someone with PTSD may experience panic attacks, flashbacks, and nightmares. Generalized anxiety disorder is when an individual feels excessive and unrealistic worry for little to no reason. Social anxiety is when an individual feels extreme anxiety over everyday social interactions.

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Warning Signs & Symptoms

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• panic, fear, and uneasiness

• problems sleeping

• not being able to stay calm or still

• cold, sweaty, numb, or tingling hands or feet

• shortness of breath

• heart palpitations

• dry mouth

• nausea

• tense muscles

• dizziness/lightheadedness

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Treatment

The first step in getting treatment is to tell someone about how you’re feeling. Talk to your doctor or a school guidance counselor. Your doctor will help diagnose you with anxiety and will work with you to find a therapist or psychiatrist to help you manage and reduce your anxiety. Your psychiatrist may recommend medication to help you deal with your anxiety. A therapist may also work with you to manage your anxiety and stress by talking about the emotional aspect of your anxiety.

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Hotlines/Websites for Support

crisistextline.org: text “START” to 741- 741

 

National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI): 1-800-950-NAMI (6264)

 

Panic Disorder Information Hotline: 800- 64-PANIC

 

Teen Helpline: 1-800-400-0900

 

Youth Crisis Hotline: 800-HIT-HOME

 

nami.org – NAMI (National Alliance for Mental Illness) is an organization that provides information on mental illness and shares the stories of many people. You can choose to share your story as well.

 

mentalhealth.gov – Provides U.S. government mental health information and support.

 

nimh.nih.gov – NIMH stands for “National Institute of Mental Health”. It has information about mental illnesses and promotes awareness about mental illness and disorders.

 

ok2talk.org – An online outlet for people to share their own stories and find support.

 

teenmentalhealth.org – Provides information about mental disorders and mental illness.