Those with anxiety disorders seem to have unrealistic fears, or they worry excessively or inappropriately. When anxiety starts to truly interfere with their relationships, their job, or school performance, or even their inner peace it begins to approach the level of an anxiety disorder. The latter is a manifestation of excessive shyness, which leads to anxiety in social situations. The former is characterized by pervasive worry not justified by life circumstances. Obsessive-compulsive disorder requires a bit more explanation.
Obsessions are recurrent and persistent thoughts that cause marked anxiety or distress.
An example is a person who keeps thinking that his hands are dangerously contaminated with germs. Compulsions are repetitive behaviors or mental acts done to prevent or reduce anxiety. An example is the previously described person who may then wash his hands 100 times per day. Anxiety disorders usually need treatment because they cause significant suffering. Unfortunately, there are many who self-medicate with alcohol which frequently results in further problems.