Anxiety is a typical and understandable reaction to stress and can be beneficial in some situations. It can alert us to dangers and help us prepare and pay more attention. However, anxiety disorders are different from typical nervousness.
Anxiety disorders involve significant worry and/or fear. They can cause people to try and avoid things, people, events, and/or situations that increase their level of anxiety. Job performance, school work, relationships, and other areas of life may be negatively impacted. Anxiety disorders are the most common of mental health conditions and affect nearly 30 percent of adults at some point in their lives. Fortunately, anxiety disorders are treatable and people are able to go on to live satisfying and fulfilling lives.