Anxiety and Depression

Unfortunately, anxiety and mood disorders are believed to be among the most common mental health conditions in the general populations of low, middle, and high-income countries around the world. Anxiety and mood disorders include generalized anxiety disorder, acute anxiety disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), phobias, panic disorder, major depressive disorder, bipolar illness, and other mood disorders. The American Psychiatric Association’s Diagnostic and Statistical Manual for Mental Disorders, 4^th Edition, Text Revision (DSM-IV), describe generalized anxiety disorder as characterized by persistent and excessive anxiety and worry over a period of at least six months. Symptoms include restlessness, being easily fatigued, difficulty concentrating, irritability, muscle tension, and sleep disturbance. Acute stress disorder occurs within four weeks of a traumatic event and is characterized by symptoms similar to those seen in PTSD. Now concerns are being raised about the connection between anxiety and depression and an increased risk for viral diseases.