by Marcy Burlock

Created on: June 22, 2009

Anxiety can be a terrifying word, especially for those who suffer from it. Most people do experience some form of anxiety throughout their lives; but a few will experience it on a level that can be paralyzing.

Anxiety Disorders aren't a well understood mental illness. We can understand and even sympathize with cancer patients because it's an illness that we can see. It is obvious that the patient is suffering and in pain. Humans are visual beings and if we can see it and even touch it; it makes it real for us.

Since anxiety is a disorder we can't physically see or touch, many can't feel for the one suffering from it. Since we all feel fear at some point, they believe the person affected should suck it up or get over It. The problem is, it's not that easy to just forget whatever it is that's making them feel anxious; and there are plenty of times they may not know the reasons themselves for the feelings.

As frustrating as it is for the friends and family surrounding the anxiety sufferer, it's more so for the person. Not being able to adequately explain their feelings to themselves makes it difficult to explain it to others. The problem ends up making the anxiety worse, as the sufferer tends to get more frustrated and angry at not finding a solution for themselves; or to make people understand.

The sufferer would change how they are feeling if they knew how to; and were given an understanding and safe place to do so.

Is Anxiety a life long sentence? That's difficult to say. For some they are able to completely recover using different methods and medications. Others where genetics are involved will deal with the problem for span of their life. It does not have to confine you inside your head though; there are some things you can do to help make the symptoms ease.

In order to know what to do live with each disorder they need to be broken down into their types.

Panic Disorder

Panic Disorder is usually shown in panic attacks or anxiety attacks. Appearing like a heart attack, it will include shortness of breath, chest pains, feelings of terror and thoughts of dying. Panic Disorder is mainly triggered by a specific situation; such as a social event or job interview.

Sufferers of Panic Disorder can begin to avoid situations that are causing them discomfort, further isolating themselves from friends and family. Eventually, this can lead to agoraphobia; where the person can't leave their house at all.

Phobias

Phobias can be divided into two separate sections. Social Phobias

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