Treatment
Understanding and overcoming anxiety disorders and obsessive-compulsive disorders
Anxiety is a normal reaction to stressful or threatening situations. However, anxiety disorders are characterised by excessive and persistent fears that are not always related to actual dangers. Those affected often experience intense physical reactions such as palpitations, sweating, trembling or shortness of breath, which can impair their quality of life. Anxiety disorders are among the most common mental illnesses that can have a significant impact on daily life.
Recognising different forms of anxiety disorders
The path to overcoming anxiety disorders begins with a comprehensive diagnosis to identify the individual causes and triggers. In psychotherapy, we encounter different forms of anxiety disorders:
- Generalised anxiety disorder (GAS) - People with GAS suffer from persistent, excessive worry and anxiety about different areas of life, even if there are no specific threats.
- Panic disorder - Panic attacks, accompanied by intense anxiety and physical symptoms, are characteristic of panic disorder. Those affected often develop fears of recurring attacks.
- Social phobia - The fear of social situations and the fear of negative judgement can significantly impair interpersonal functioning.
- Specific phobias - Certain objects, situations or activities trigger strong and excessive fears. This can range from a fear of travelling by plane to animal phobias.
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) - People who have experienced traumatic events can suffer from PTSD, which is characterised by recurring flashbacks, nightmares and extreme emotional distress.