As per the dictionary, anxiety is defined as a state of mind that displays fear and apprehension, which is induced by the threat of an impending danger, unforeseen circumstances and situations for which the people are not prepared for. Scientifically, anxiety definition is a little more elaborate. It includes the relationship between mental state and symptoms. It also elaborates about the threats by including stress, lack of knowledge, lack of assertion and confidence, etc. It also states that the threats can be real or even perceived and imagined. In all, anxiety is a mental state of mind that is agitated and confused about various real or imaginary life situations and does not know the right course of action to face these situations.

This confusion is very common with all the people, at various stages in their lives. In fact, all of us undergo anxiety many times in a month. While it is a passing phase for most of us, anxiety can become a chronic ailment in some people who are not able to overcome it on their own. Long lasting anxiety bouts will need additional treatment and help and these ailments are called anxiety disorders. There are many types of anxiety disorders and all of them have specific symptoms that can help in identification and diagnosis of the disorder. The symptoms can include physical and biological effects; emotional and behavioral effects; and psychological effects. A sequence or combination of these symptoms is generally the indicator of the presence of this ailment in people. Determination of the type of anxiety disorder will be done by professionals but people can determine the existence of the ailment within them, by observing the symptoms. There are many causes for anxiety disorders and the most important of them are stress, heredity and lack of adequate preparation to face life situations. The treatments for these ailments involve detailed and comprehensive behavioral therapy, along with psychotherapy. Some amounts of medication are also included. The behavioral therapy includes preparation of the patients to face issues and challenges by increasing their knowledge and awareness. They will also include behavior change sessions. Psychotherapy includes sessions that can help people overcome fear and apprehension. People suffering from long term anxiety disorders will need professional help to overcome their problems. Non treatment or non diagnosis of the ailment can increase the risk of panic attacks and also can induce other types of psychological ailments.