ANXIETY/ PANIC DISORDER

Description
Anxiety disorder with panic attacks occur unexpectedly and repeatedly with feelings of intense fear and physical symptoms in response to non-threatening situations. Over two million adults suffer from this disorder in a given year.

Symptom

Paralyzing fear Rapid heartbeat Heavy sweating Feeling hot or cold Disorientation Faintness Smothering sensations Feeling of dying

Treatment
Medication: antidepressants
Cognitive behavioral therapy

For more information on these disorders,
Visit NAMI’s website at www.nami.org/helpline.htm

OBSESSIVE-COMPULSIVE DISORDER

Description
Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is characterized by intrusive and bothersome thoughts and/or compulsive ritualistic behavior that can occupy many hours of each day. It is OCD when obsessions and compulsions interfere with a person’s daily life

Common Obsessions (thoughts)

Fear of dirt or contaminationFear of causing harm to self or othersFear of making a mistakeNeed for symmetry or exactnessSexual or religious abhorrence

Common Compulsions (urges)

Constant cleaning/ washing handsRepeated checking, ordering and recountingHoarding useless material

Treatment

Cognitive behavioral therapyExposure & Response TherapyMedication: Antidepressants such as Paxil, Celexa, Luvox, Effexor