Feeling anxious is a common emotion when someone feels stressed, such as going for a job interview or giving a speech.

Anxiety is the sensation of worry, nervousness, or uneasiness. However, when anxiety becomes persistent and overwhelming, it may affect your day-to-day activities such as work performance and relationships.

If the feeling of anxiety is extreme over a period of time, you may have an anxiety disorder.

There is 1.6 per cent of people in Singapore who have experienced a generalised anxiety disorder.

What are the Different Types of Anxiety Disorder?

1. Generalised anxiety disorder (GAD)

A person feels excessive worry and tension for little or no reason. The person will have difficulty controlling the fear and experience.

2. Panic Disorder

A person will experience recurrent panic attacks. First, there is a sudden and intense fear followed by a panic attack. Persistent worry about the subsequent panic attacks.

3. Social Phobia (Social Anxiety Disorder)

A person will feel overwhelmed and self-conscious in social situations.

4. Obsessive-compulsive Disorder (OCD)

A person will have uncontrollable, recurring thoughts or behaviours that the person feels the need to repeat repeatedly.

5. Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

A condition as a result of having experienced a traumatic event.

What are the General Symptoms of an Anxiety Disorder?

Symptoms of general anxiety include:

• Increased heart rate
• Rapid breathing
• Restlessness
• Excessive sweating
• Trouble concentrating
• Difficulty falling asleep
• Chills or heat sensations
• Nausea
• Fear, panic, and feelings of uneasiness
• Fatigue
• Irritability

What are the Causes of Anxiety Disorder?

Some of the causes of anxiety disorders are:

• Having a family media history
• Having certain medical conditions
• Experiencing stressful events
• Change in brain chemistry
• Drug withdrawal or misuse

What are the Treatments of Anxiety Disorders?

At PULSE Clinic, we believe in a holistic approach to managing and treating anxiety disorders. Psychotherapy will help you to learn tools and strategies to cope with anxiety issues.