Anxiety is a mental health disorder characterized by feelings of worry, anxiety, or fear that are strong enough to interfere with one’s daily activities. It often involves nervousness, restlessness, and a sense of impending doom or danger. Symptoms can be both physical and psychological. Although anxiety is a natural human response to stress, it becomes problematic when it is excessive and persists without any apparent cause. It is classified into various types, including Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Panic Disorder, and various phobia-related disorders. Anxiety is distinct from normal stress in that it is more persistent and can even occur without any external threat. It typically requires treatment ranging from lifestyle changes and counselling to medication. Anxiety is understood through its cognitive, emotional, and physical manifestations, each contributing to the debilitating nature of the disorder.
