Panic And Other Anxiety Disorders

Panic and other anxiety disorders have long been both puzzling and frustrating, especially to the person going through it. It always seems like a 'mystery illness' that no one can figure out.nnThe problem is, a lot of the time, anxiety disorders can mimic other more serious conditions. So the patient rushes to emergency and is eventually told there's nothing wrong, even after extensive tests.nnAlso, most people never take a mental health problem seriously, unless they, or someone they know has it. It almost seems like respectable folk don't talk about 'these things'.nnMental health problems are like robberies. You never think it will happen to you, just to someone else. nnGoing From Doctor To DoctornnAnother problem is that most doctors can't help, since they are not trained for mental issues. Unless you go to a specific doctor like a psychiatrist, you may go for years, looking for the 'right' doctor.nnThis ends up being costly. It is also disturbing and can make you angry or depressed. You may even lose your faith with doctors. However, if you see a cardiologist because you have chest pains, chances are nothing will show up.nnSo it's not entirely the doctor's fault. They can only do what they are trained in. If you feel that nothing has worked, it's best to see a psychiatrist. If you have been given a clean bill of health, you may have an anxiety disorder.nnAnxiety disorders are a lot more common than most people think, yet, they are also not very understood. Though there are many theories, no one can say what causes it.nnList of some of the anxiety disorders:nn - panic disordernn - agoraphobia (with or without panic disorder)nn - social anxiety disorder (or social phobia)nn - generalized anxiety disordernn - separation anxiety disordernn - obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)nn - post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)nnImportance Of Accepting Your Anxiety DisordernnThough anxiety disorders can be treated, unfortunately, you have to remember that it's not a cure. It is also possible for it to return, perhaps years later when you're feeling absolutely fine.nnAlthough each person's situation is unique and will react to treatments differently, the important thing to remember is that help is always available. If something doesn't work, something else will.nnIt's important to learn coping skills during treatment and to maintain it even after you start feeling better. Think of it as exercise for your mind. If you went for a jog, you wouldn't go for your next jog one year later, would you? (Maybe I might!) nnYou develop an exercise program and you stick with it. Think of your anxiety disorder skills in the same light. Maintenance is the key.nnOne important thing about panic and other anxiety disorders is to accept that you have it. This may be hard to do, as it's more natural to want to fight it. nnAccept that it's a part of you. Understand what's happening to you. Educate yourself. With constant practice, you should start making tremendous progress.