Published online by Cambridge University Press: 02 January 2025
Anxiety disorders are the most common form of mental disorders, especially in young adults and children. They are typically characterized by extreme or excessive fear and anxiety or avoidance of perceived threats. Anxiety disorders encompass a range of conditions including, social anxiety disorder, selective mutism, panic disorder (or attacks), separation anxiety disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, and specific phobias. The risk for anxiety disorders is multifactorial, composed of genetic and environmental factors. While the specific neurobiological pathophysiology of anxiety disorders is yet to be undetermined, dysfunction in the fronto-limbic system is consistently related to these disorders. Additionally, comorbidity with other mental disorders, especially depression and substance abuse, is common with anxiety disorders. Anxiety disorders have a major public health relevance and remain highly underdiagnosed. They carry a high burden, as these disorders are often chronic, recurrent, and disabling throughout life. Treatment of anxiety disorders consists of various psychotherapies and pharmacological treatments. Although treatment methods are effective in mitigating the symptoms, more research is critically needed to personalize treatment approaches and provide long-term relief.
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