The behaviors are performed with a sense of subjective compulsion coupled with a desire to resist, at least initially. The acts do not produce a sense of pleasure, but rather a release of tension. The behaviors are a significant source of distress to the person or interfere with their social or role functioning. However, many visit their internists or family physicians with concerns about symptoms that may be caused by an anxiety disorder. Recent studies indicate that 20 percent of the ailments for which Americans seek a doctor's care are related to anxiety.
Persistent anxiety can produce a variety of emotional and physical symptoms.
Today there are many situations or stressors that can lead to prolonged anxiety responses - the demands of a stressful career, financial woes, divorce, and family problems. Over time, symptoms such as irritability, edginess, depressed mood and varied physical complaints may result. Following diagnosis by a physician or other mental health professional, treatment can be undertaken through a variety of medical approaches, including behavioral therapy, psychotherapy, medications or a combination of therapies. With appropriate treatment, sufferers of anxiety disorders can improve, recover and return to normal activities. Research indicates that 90 percent of phobic and obsessive-compulsive patients will recover with behavioral therapy.