While feelings of anxiety are part of every one's life, Anxiety Disorders are characterized by irrational, uncontrollable, and debilitating levels of anxiety. Self medication with addictive substances are often used to suppress the anxiety. As a result, addiction often co-occurs with Anxiety Disorders.

Five major types of anxiety disorders are:
1. Generalized Anxiety Disorder
2. Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
3. Panic Disorder
4. Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
5. Social Phobia (or Social Anxiety Disorder)