UNDERSTAND

ING ANXIETY
Done by Rehab Meckawy
Supervisor Prof. Dr. Amira Seif
 INTRODU
CTION
 Anxiety disorder is a common mental health condition
that affects millions of people worldwide.

 This presentation aims to provide an overview of anxiety,

its symptoms, causes, and treatment options.

 By understanding anxiety better, we can promote

awareness, reduce stigma, and support individuals dealing
with anxiety.
 WHAT IS

ANXIETY?
Anxiety is a natural response to stress or danger.

 It is characterized by feelings of fear and worry that

can be accompanied by physical symptoms, such as
increased heart rate, sweating, and shortness of breath.

 While occasional anxiety is normal, an anxiety

disorder involves excessive [in depth and duration] and
persistent worry that impairs daily functioning.
 TYPES OF ANXIETY
DISORDERS
There are several types of anxiety disorders,
including:
1. Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD)
2. Separation anxiety disorder
3. Panic disorder
4. Social anxiety disorder
5. Phobia
 GENERALIZED
ANXIETY DISORDER
(GAD)
 GAD involves excessive and uncontrollable worry about
various aspects of life for a certain period of time, such as
work, health, and relationships.

 Individuals with GAD often experience physical symptoms

like restlessness, fatigue, and difficulty concentrating.

 The worry is persistent and interferes with daily activities.

 SEPARATION ANXIETY
DISORDER
 Separation anxiety disorder is
commonly observed in children but
can also affect adults. It involves
excessive distress and fear when
separated from parents or
caregivers.
 PANIC
DISORDER
 Panic disorder is characterized by recurrent panic
attacks, which are sudden and intense episodes of
fear or discomfort.

 These attacks are often accompanied by physical

symptoms like chest pain and dizziness.

 Fear of future panic attacks can lead to avoidance

behaviors.
 SOCIAL ANXIETY
DISORDER
 Social anxiety disorder involves an
intense fear of specific social situations.
For example, individuals with social
anxiety may experience extreme fear of
embarrassment or humiliation, and
avoidance of social interactions. It can
significantly impact relationships, work,
and social activities.
 PHOBIA
 Phobia is irrational fears of specific
objects or situations. Common examples as
fear of heights or taking air flights or
specific fear from spiders.
 Exposure to the phobic stimulus can
trigger intense anxiety and panic attacks,
leading to avoidance being in this situation.
 DIAGNOSIS OF ANXIETY
DISORDER
 Diagnosing anxiety disorder involves:
Individual's symptoms
Duration of symptoms
Impairment in the daily activity

 Clinical assessment and standardized tools are

commonly used to determine the presence and
severity of anxiety.
 MANAGEMENT
OPTIONS
 Effective management is for anxiety
disorders:
 Supportive therapy
 Environmental therapy
 Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
 Medications
 SUPPORT THERAPY
Support Networks
 Family, friends, and support groups can provide
understanding, empathy, and encouragement.

 By creating a supportive environment, actively

listening, we can help individuals feel
comfortable seeking professional help for their
anxiety.
 COGNITIVE-BEHAVIORAL
THERAPY (CBT)
 Add CBT to the supportive therapy if the
supportive therapy alone was not successful after
a certain period of time.

 CBT focuses on motivating the individual and

strengthening the negative items in a positive way.
 MEDICAT
ION
 Medications are used if CBT was not effective
after at least for two months.

 Start with small doses and strengthen positive

behavior, if not effective increase the dose
gradually and continue the CBT. If still not
effective, add on anxiolytics. Selective
serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and
benzodiazepines are commonly used
medications.
 SUMMA
RY
 Anxiety disorder is a common mental health
condition that can significantly impact an
individual's life.
 By understanding anxiety better, recognizing
its symptoms, and promoting awareness, we
can support individuals in seeking help,
reducing stigma.
Remember: anxiety is treatable, and with the
right support, individuals can lead fulfilling and
anxiety-free lives.
THANK
YOU