Encountering certain obstacles or situations may leave one frightened.  Being afraid to be in a crowded store, being afraid to drive on an overpass, fear of making a public presentation (performance anxiety) or of meeting new people (social anxiety) can all create debilitating anxiety.  According to the National Institute of Mental Health, more than 10 million adults live with some kind of phobia.  

While phobias relate to specific circumstances, anxiety, which may or may not be trauma-related, are much more pervasive and can lead to  symptoms which may rarely lighten up.  Many  have difficulty being able to quiet their somatic state (heart rate, breathing, shakiness) throughout the day.

Treatment options

Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT) is among the more common treatment options for individuals with anxiety and specific phobias.  Other treatment approaches include desensitization, exposure therapy and the use of exercise, breathing strategies and meditation.  Medication can be an adjunct to treatment in some situations.