What characterizes an anxiety disorder?

Anxiety disorders are primarily characterized by excessive fear or anxiety that is disproportionate to the situation at hand. This can manifest in various forms, such as generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder, social anxiety disorder, and specific phobias. The key aspect of anxiety disorders is the overwhelming nature of the fear or worry, which can interfere with daily functioning and quality of life.

Feelings of anxiety often include heightened levels of worry, restlessness, irritability, difficulty concentrating, and physical symptoms such as increased heart rate and sweating. This marked and persistent anxiety distinguishes anxiety disorders from other mental health conditions, highlighting the importance of recognizing and treating these symptoms effectively.

While other options mention symptoms that could be present in different disorders, they do not capture the essence of anxiety disorders specifically. Persistent depressive feelings refer to major depressive disorders, inability to connect with reality relates to psychotic disorders, and unexplained physical symptoms are more indicative of somatic symptom disorders.