Family Matters
of Marin
Back to BlogAnxiety

The Many Forms of Anxiety and What to Do About It

Anneli RichardsLMFT, Owner & Director
August 5, 2025
4 min read
The Many Forms of Anxiety and What to Do About It

Anxiety is one of the most common mental health challenges, but it doesn't look the same for everyone. Some people experience racing thoughts before a presentation. Others feel panicked at the idea of leaving home. Anxiety shows up in many forms, and understanding your specific type is the first step toward effective treatment.

Common Types of Anxiety Disorders

Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD)

Persistent, excessive worry about a variety of everyday things, often accompanied by physical symptoms like muscle tension and fatigue.

Social Anxiety Disorder

Intense fear of social situations and being judged or scrutinized by others.

Panic Disorder

Recurring, unexpected panic attacks accompanied by fear of future attacks.

Specific Phobias

Intense, irrational fear of specific objects or situations, such as heights, flying, or certain animals.

Separation Anxiety

Excessive fear about being separated from attachment figures, common in children but also affecting adults.

Agoraphobia

Fear of situations where escape might be difficult, leading to avoidance of public places or open spaces.

Treatment Options

Anxiety is highly treatable. Common approaches include:

  • CBT -- Identifying and changing anxious thought patterns
  • Exposure therapy -- Gradually facing feared situations
  • Mindfulness practices -- Building present-moment awareness
  • Medication -- When symptoms are severe enough to warrant pharmacological support
  • Lifestyle changes -- Exercise, sleep hygiene, and stress management
  • If anxiety is affecting your daily life, professional support can make a meaningful difference. Reach out to learn about anxiety therapy options.

    Tags

    anxietyhigh functioning-anxietymental health

    Need support for your family?

    Schedule a free 15-minute consultation with one of our therapists.

    Get Started