They are illnesses, often related to the biological makeup and life experiences of the individual, and they frequently run in families. There are several types of anxiety disorders, each with its own distinct features. An anxiety disorder may make you feel anxious most of the time, without any apparent reason. Or the anxious feelings may be so uncomfortable that to avoid them you may stop some everyday activities. Or you may have occasional bouts of anxiety so intense they terrify and immobilize you.
Anxiety disorders are the most common of all the mental disorders.
NIMH also conducts educational outreach activities about anxiety disorders and other mental illnesses. Many people misunderstand these disorders and think individuals should be able to overcome the symptoms by sheer willpower. Wishing the symptoms away does not work but there are treatments that can help. That's why NIMH has produced this pamphlet to help you understand these conditions, describe their treatments, and explain the role of research in conquering anxiety and other mental disorders. More detailed information on some of these anxiety disorders is available through NIMH or other sources.