The 5 Major Anxiety Disorders

Psych2Go

This educational video provides a concise yet comprehensive overview of five distinct types of anxiety disorders: Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD), Social Anxiety Disorder, Panic Disorder, and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). Through minimalist animation and clear narration, the video breaks down the specific symptoms that characterize each condition, ensuring viewers understand that anxiety is not a "one size fits all" diagnosis. It also outlines the standard treatments for each, ranging from specific medications like SSRIs and beta-blockers to various forms of psychotherapy like CBT. The video explores key themes of mental health awareness, the importance of accurate diagnosis, and the destigmatization of mental illness. A significant portion of the content is dedicated to distinguishing between similar disorders (such as the difference between a panic attack as a symptom versus Panic Disorder as a condition) and debunking common myths, particularly regarding who can suffer from PTSD. The narrative emphasizes that treatment is highly personalized and often requires a combination of medication and therapy. For educators and mental health professionals, this video serves as an excellent introductory tool for high school Health or Psychology curriculums. It simplifies complex pharmacological and psychological terminology into accessible concepts. The video concludes with a strong message about empathy and social support, making it valuable for Social Emotional Learning (SEL) contexts to teach students how to support peers who may be struggling with these invisible conditions.