Many clients that I see who suffer with anxiety are not diagnosed with an Anxiety Disorder. Anxiety only becomes a disorder when it's irrational, excessive and when it interferes with a person's ability to function in daily life.
Below I have summarised the most commonly diagnosed Anxiety Disorders that I often work with. It is not an exhaustive list as there are many other anxiety disorders that are not listed here. Here is an overview of the most commonly known ones.
Generalised anxiety disorder (GAD)
Generalised anxiety disorder (GAD) – this diagnosis means you have regular or uncontrollable worries about many different things in your everyday life. Because there are lots of possible symptoms of anxiety this can be quite a broad diagnosis, meaning that the problems you experience with GAD might be quite different from another person's experiences.
Panic disorder
Panic disorder – is a diagnosis where regular or frequent panic attacks occur without a clear cause or trigger. Experiencing panic disorder can mean that you feel constantly afraid of having another panic attack, to the point that this fear itself can trigger your panic attacks.
Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)
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Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) – you may be given this diagnosis if your anxiety problems involve having repetitive thoughts, behaviours or urges.
Social anxiety disorder.
Social anxiety disorder – this diagnosis means you experience extreme fear or anxiety triggered by social situations (such as parties, workplaces, or everyday situations where you have to talk to another person). It is also known as social phobia.
Post Traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
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Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) – this is a diagnosis you may be given if you develop anxiety problems after going through something you found traumatic. PTSD can involve experiencing flashbacks or nightmares which can feel like you're re-living all the fear and anxiety you experienced at the time of the traumatic events.
Body dysmorphic disorder (BDD)
Body dysmorphic disorder (BDD) – this means you experience obsessions and compulsions relating to your physical appearance.
