What is a common outcome of severe anxiety disorders?

Severe anxiety disorders often lead to social withdrawal as individuals may experience intense fear or discomfort in social situations. This withdrawal serves as a coping mechanism to avoid anxiety-provoking interactions and environments. The overwhelming nature of anxiety can make it difficult for individuals to engage in social activities, leading them to isolate themselves from friends, family, and other social engagements.

In contrast, increased motivation and enhanced cognitive capabilities are not typically associated with anxiety disorders. Severe anxiety often hinders motivation and can impact cognitive functions such as focus and decision-making, where individuals may struggle to think clearly due to their anxiety symptoms. Greater empathy might be applicable in some contexts, but it is not a direct outcome of severe anxiety; instead, anxiety often narrows one’s ability to connect with others emotionally due to preoccupation with personal fears and worries. Thus, social withdrawal is the most common and evident outcome associated with severe anxiety disorders.