ABSTRACT
Anxiety disorders are the most frequently found disorders in the general population. They are described at length in the revised third edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (American Psychiatric Association, 1987), which notes that, “The characteristic features of this group of disorders are symptoms of anxiety and avoidance behavior” (p. 235). Most individuals experience occasional anxiety and avoidance, but are able to manage them without much difficulty. However, many people suffer acute episodes of intense anxiety (panic disorders) or chronic feelings of anxiety and worry (generalized anxiety disorders). These and other anxiety disorders are characterized by unrealistic anxiety and worry, and an array of physical symptoms such as trembling, palpitations, chest pains, shortness of breath, and difficulty sleeping (American Psychiatric Association, 1987, p. 238). Anxiety disorders can cause severe problems and limit one’s experience, thus indicating a need for psychotherapy.
