5C-1 Anxiety & Anxiety Disorder: Types of Anxiety Disorders & Symptoms

Anxiety is a normal emotion, and people experience it when they face challenging problems or stressful situations. Examples can include preparing for difficult tests or trying to beat work deadlines.

Unlike normal stress, an anxiety disorder affects a person’s ability to function in daily life. The inability to  function must last at least six months before a person would be diagnosed with an anxiety disorder. 

Anxiety disorders can get worse without treatment, and a person can be overwhelmed by fear and worry. 

Anxiety can occur with other mental illnesses. Some people try to cope by using drugs or alcohol. Substance use can mask symptoms or make them worse. Symptoms may be different with each person and type of anxiety disorder.