Anxiety disorders are the nation's most common type of emotional problem.
The National Institute of Mental Health estimates that more than 28 million people develop an anxiety disorder every year. Anxiety disorders develop when a person experiences unreasonable and disturbing sensations of fear and tension for no apparent cause. Common symptoms of anxiety disorders include unrealistic or excessive worry, sleep disturbances, dizziness, jittering, racing or pounding heart, upset stomach, numbness in hands, face or feet, and fatigue. The individual may feel like he or she is losing control, dying, or going crazy. Physical symptoms include heart palpitations, shortness of breath, sweating, faintness, and sensations of choking or smothering.