Deutsch: Angst / Español: Ansiedad / Português: Ansiedade / Français: Anxiété / Italiano: Ansia /
Anxiety refers to a sense of apprehension and fear often marked by physical symptoms (such as sweating, tension, and increased heart rate).
Anxiety can express itself in various ways. trouble falling asleep; dwell on a particular situation and find it difficult to think of something else; feel tense, restless, jittery, dizzy and sweaty; have trouble concentrating; overeat or lose your appetite; be overly vigilant and startle easily; have a feeling of impending disaster, as if "something bad is going to happen;" or are depressed (anxiety can mask depression). In short anxiety refers to a mood state characterized by strong negative affect, bodily symptoms of tension, and apprehensive anticipation of future danger or misfortune.
Description
Anxiety in psychology refers to a feeling of unease, worry, or fear that can range from mild to severe and can have a significant impact on a person's daily life. It is a natural response to stress, but when it becomes excessive or persistent, it can interfere with a person's ability to function effectively. Anxiety can manifest in physical symptoms such as increased heart rate, sweating, and trembling, as well as in cognitive symptoms such as excessive worry, difficulty concentrating, and irrational fears. It can be triggered by a variety of factors, including trauma, genetics, and environmental stressors.
Application Areas
- Clinical psychology
- Counseling psychology
- Psychiatric treatment
- Therapy and counseling
Treatment and Risks
- Cognitive-behavioral therapy
- Exposure therapy
- Medication (e.g., antidepressants, anti-anxiety drugs)
- Risks associated with untreated anxiety include worsening symptoms, impaired daily functioning, and increased risk of other mental health disorders.
Examples
- Generalized anxiety disorder
- Panic disorder
- Social anxiety disorder
- Specific phobias
Similar Concepts and Synonyms
- Stress
- Fear
- Worry
- Panic
Summary
Anxiety in the psychology context refers to a feeling of unease, worry, or fear that can vary in intensity and impact. It can manifest in physical and cognitive symptoms and may be triggered by various factors. Treatment options include therapy, medication, and lifestyle changes. Risks of untreated anxiety include worsening symptoms and impaired functioning. It is important to seek help if anxiety symptoms are significantly impacting daily life.
--