Everyone is scared of something, right? Public speaking, heights, death, spiders, snakes—most people can name at least one thing that scares them. While unhealthy fear interferes with our daily functioning, normal or healthy fear has an upside. It keeps us from engaging in risky behaviors, which in turn, ensures our safety.

But what happens, when, for whatever reason, fear takes center stage in one’s life?   Disorders develop. These disorders may develop due to a traumatic event, substance use, health problems, a major life stressor or stress. The spectrum of anxiety disorders is somewhat broad–from generalized anxiety disorder in which individuals experience months of worry and anxiety to disorders like agoraphobia and panic attacks, which can prevent people from leaving their homes for weeks or even months. Here is a list of some common anxiety disorders:

Panic attacks, Agoraphobia, Specific phobias (heights, bridges, water, etc.), Social phobia, Obsessive-compulsive Disorder, Posttraumatic Stress Disorder, Acute Stress Disorder, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Anxiety Due to a Medical Condition and Substance-Induced Anxiety. 

Healthy fear and/or anxiety become a disorder when they disrupt daily functioning. When you are unable to fulfill your life roles (husband, wife, student, partner, mother, etc.) due to fear or anxiety it is most likely a good time to speak to a licensed mental health counselor.  A counselor can help you identify what triggers your fear, as well as teach you ways to cope with it. She can even help you uncover and work through past experiences that may be contributing to your current anxiety.

If fear or anxiety is interfering with your daily functioning, or if you have a lack of peace and therefore joy in your life, please call Life Enhancement Counseling Services of Orlando today at (407) 620-7855 to make an appointment to speak with a therapist. A licensed mental health counselor can provide emotional support and help you identify and implement ways to have a more centered, peaceful and joyful life.