Anxiety Disorders: Common Misconceptions

Anxiety disorders are a group of mental health conditions characterized by excessive, persistent, and uncontrollable worry or fear. They are diagnosed through psychiatric evaluation to determine the type of anxiety disorder. Common types of anxiety disorders include social anxiety, PTSD, and generalized anxiety disorder.

These disorders can be highly debilitating, but they are often misunderstood or subject to various misconceptions, making it difficult for patients to open up a conversation about anxiety. Here are some common misconceptions about anxiety you may not have known about:

• It Is Just Normal Stress

  While stress may be a symptom of anxiety, it most definitely is not just normal stress. Anxiety disorders are more intense and chronic than normal stress and often require psychiatric treatment.

• Anxiety Is All in the Head

  Anxiety disorders most definitely have a psychological component but can also have physical manifestations. Physical symptoms of anxiety include muscle tension, rapid heartbeats, sweating, and trembling. Causes of anxiety can also have physical roots, for example, hormonal imbalances. We provide mental health treatment in Maryland to help you cope with mental health struggles like anxiety, substance abuse, and many more.

• Anxiety Is a Minor Issue

  Anxiety disorders can have life-altering and debilitating effects on patients. It is not merely a phase or a minor issue. While anxiety can come and go, the disorder, if not treated, can last for months or even years.

We offer behavioral therapy in Baltimore, Maryland, to help clients understand their condition, find healthy coping skills, learn various symptom management practices, and more. For more information, call PrimeHealth Behavioral Healthcare Services LLC at 443-869-2550.