Anxiety disorders are a group of mental‑health conditions where fear, worry, or nervousness becomes intense, persistent, and interferes with everyday life. In plain language, it’s when the brain’s alarm system stays turned on far longer than it should, even when there’s no real danger.
Key points:
- Excessive worry – You might constantly fret about things that most people would consider minor or unlikely.
- Physical symptoms – Racing heart, shortness of breath, shaking, stomach upset, or feeling tense are common.
- Avoidance – You may start steering clear of situations that trigger the anxiety, even if they’re harmless (e.g., crowds, public speaking, driving).
- Duration – The anxiety lasts weeks, months, or years, not just a brief moment of stress.
- Impact on life – Work, school, relationships, and daily routines can suffer because the anxiety consumes mental and emotional energy.