What defines an anxiety disorder?

An anxiety disorder is characterized primarily by persistent feelings of worry, anxiety, or fear that are often disproportionate to the actual situation at hand. Individuals experiencing an anxiety disorder may find it challenging to manage these emotions, which can significantly impact their daily lives and overall functioning. This classification includes various conditions, such as generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder, and social anxiety disorder, each presenting specific symptoms related to excessive anxiety and fear responses.

Other choices do not accurately describe anxiety disorders. For instance, periods of high energy followed by low energy resemble mood disorders such as bipolar disorder, which involves cyclical changes in mood rather than persistent anxiety. Significant memory loss and confusion are more associated with cognitive or neurocognitive disorders, including dementia. Hallucinations and delusions are hallmark symptoms of psychotic disorders, such as schizophrenia, which are distinct from anxiety disorders. Thus, the defining characteristic of an anxiety disorder revolves around the pervasive feelings of worry and fear.