There are different forms of anxiety which, if left untreated, can be debilitating. The diagnostic categories of anxiety disorders include: Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Panic Disorder, Agoraphobia, Social Anxiety Disorder, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, and Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), all are forms and types of the experience of anxiety. According to Quick Facts: Mental Illness and Addictions in Canada, anxiety is the most common mental illness in Canada affecting 9% of men and 16% of women . Anxiety can appear very suddenly and make one feel as if they are going crazy and are unable to control themselves. Once the fear takes over the anxiety symptoms are exaggerated and feed on each other. Anxiety can be a constant companion as in Generalized Anxiety Disorder, or an episodic event as in Panic Disorder. No matter what one’s specific symptoms and experiences with anxiety are, anxiety is a serious, potentially life threatening disorder that requires medical attention and treatment.

Click for a brief description of each type of anxiety disorder. If you think you are suffering from anxiety in any of its forms, contact your medical professional for further investigation and assessment. Remember, like all mental illnesses, anxiety is a treatable condition.