Not All Anxiety Disorders Are the Same: Learn the Differences

Anxiety is a normal part of life—but when it interferes with your daily functioning, relationships, or well-being, it may be part of an anxiety disorder. At Century City Psychiatry, we want patients to understand that not all anxiety disorders are the same. Different types of anxiety have unique symptoms, causes, and treatment approaches. Knowing the differences is the first step toward effective care.

Our Los Angeles-based psychiatric team provides personalized, evidence-based treatment for a wide range of anxiety disorders using the latest therapeutic techniques and medication options.

Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD)

GAD is characterized by persistent, excessive worry about everyday matters. People with GAD often anticipate disaster, even when there is little or no reason to worry. Symptoms can include:

• Restlessness or feeling on edge
• Fatigue
• Difficulty concentrating
• Irritability
• Muscle tension
• Sleep problems

This condition often goes undiagnosed because the worry can feel “normal” to those who live with it. However, GAD can greatly reduce quality of life if left untreated.

Panic Disorder

Panic disorder involves recurrent, unexpected panic attacks—sudden periods of intense fear that come on quickly and peak within minutes. These episodes may include:

• Rapid heartbeat
• Chest pain
• Shortness of breath
• Dizziness
• Sweating
• A fear of losing control or dying

Panic disorder can lead to avoidance behaviors and a fear of being in public or alone. It can mimic heart problems, making it important to receive a proper psychiatric evaluation.

Social Anxiety Disorder

Also known as social phobia, this disorder causes intense fear of social or performance situations. People with social anxiety often worry about being judged, embarrassed, or rejected in public. Common scenarios that trigger symptoms include:

• Public speaking
• Meeting new people
• Eating in front of others
• Attending social gatherings

This condition can impact academic, professional, and personal relationships—but it’s highly treatable with targeted therapy and support.

Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)

OCD is an anxiety disorder that includes obsessions (unwanted, intrusive thoughts) and compulsions (repetitive behaviors or mental acts). Individuals may feel driven to perform rituals to reduce anxiety, such as:

• Excessive hand washing
• Checking locks or appliances
• Counting or repeating actions
• Avoiding “contaminated” people or objects

OCD is often misunderstood but is treatable through a combination of CBT with exposure and response prevention (ERP) and medication.

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

PTSD develops after experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event such as abuse, assault, a natural disaster, or military combat. Symptoms may include:

• Flashbacks or nightmares
• Avoidance of trauma-related cues
• Hypervigilance or exaggerated startle response
• Emotional numbness
• Irritability or anger

PTSD can emerge soon after the event or months later. It’s a complex disorder, but targeted trauma-informed therapies and medication can help patients reclaim control.

Phobias

Phobias are intense, irrational fears of specific objects or situations. Common phobias include:

• Heights (acrophobia)
• Flying (aerophobia)
• Animals (e.g., spiders, dogs)
• Enclosed spaces (claustrophobia)
• Needles or blood

Avoidance behavior is common and can interfere with daily life. Exposure therapy is highly effective for specific phobias, often in combination with supportive therapy and anxiety-reducing medications.

Personalized Anxiety Treatment in Century City

At Century City Psychiatry, we recognize that no two patients are alike. That’s why our anxiety treatment plans are highly individualized, combining the best of:

• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) – a proven method to reframe anxious thoughts
• Medication Management – including SSRIs, SNRIs, or other anxiolytics as needed
• Lifestyle Modifications – stress-reduction techniques, sleep hygiene, nutrition, and exercise guidance

We work closely with each patient to identify their triggers, understand the type of anxiety they’re experiencing, and find the most effective path forward. Whether you’re struggling with GAD, panic attacks, OCD, or trauma-related anxiety, help is available.

Start Your Journey Toward Relief

Living with anxiety can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to define your life. With the right support, you can feel more in control, more confident, and more present in your daily life.

If you’re in the Century City or West Los Angeles area and struggling with anxiety, contact Century City Psychiatry today to schedule a consultation. Our experienced team is here to provide the expert, compassionate care you deserve.