Anxiety is a psychological and physiological response to stress characterized by persistent worry, fear, or nervousness that can interfere with daily functioning. While occasional anxiety is a normal reaction to challenging situations, anxiety disorders involve excessive or prolonged symptoms that may include restlessness, rapid heartbeat, muscle tension, difficulty concentrating, sleep disturbances, and gastrointestinal discomfort. Common forms include generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder, social anxiety disorder, and specific phobias. Contributing factors may involve genetics, brain chemistry, life experiences, or underlying medical conditions. Treatment often includes cognitive-behavioral therapy, stress management techniques, lifestyle modifications, and, when appropriate, medication to help regulate mood and reduce symptoms.
