Anxiety Disorders Home A-Z Health Information Health Library A-Z Anxiety Disorders Overview Anxiety disorders is a category of psychiatric disorders that arise from accumulated emotions such as fear and stress which develop over time. Anxiety disorder is characterised by persistent, and overwhelming anxiety or worrying about everyday situations that lasts over at least 6 months or more. They can be triggered by certain situations or incidents such as debt, death of loved ones, divorce, unemployment, etcetera. Causes Some factors that contribute to the development of anxiety disorders are as follows:GeneticsEnvironmental factorsChanges in brainChemical imbalance Types There are different types of anxiety disorders such asPanic disorderGeneralised anxiety disorderSpecific phobias. Symptoms Anxiety disorders are linked to physical symptoms of anxiety such as:Pounding heartRacing pulseChest discomfortSweatingTrembling or shakingFeeling of loss of controlFeeling giddyLight-headednessChillshot flushes. Diagnosis Diagnosis is based on physical examination, symptoms and observation of behaviour. Blood tests and imaging are used to rule out other physical conditions. Treatment Anxiety disorders treatment involves MedicationsPsychotherapy services.