(NAPS)-Fear and anxiety are necessary parts of life. Whether you feel anxiety before taking a test or feel fear as you walk down a dark street, normal anxiety can be both protective and stimulating.

Unfortunately, more that 19 million Americans with anxiety disorders face much more than just "normal" anxiety. Instead, their lives are filled with overwhelming anxiety and fear that can be intense and crippling.

Although anxiety disorders can be disabling, research supported and conducted by the National Institute of Mental Health has provided insight into their causes and has resulted in many effective treatments.

Q. Are anxiety disorders an illness of the brain?
A. Yes. Brain research demonstrates that conditions as different as a stroke, anxiety disorders, alcohol addiction, anorexia, learning disabilities and Alzheimer's all have their roots in the brain.

Q. Is post-tramatic stress disorder, once referred to as "shell shock" or "battle fatigue," a condition that only affects war veterans?
A. No. Individuals who have experienced a dramatic event or ordeal, such as an assault, car accident or tornado, may also be at risk for developing post-tramatic stress disorder (PTSD).

Q. Does someone who feels compelled to spend a great deal of time doing things over and over-such as washing their hands, checking things or counting things-have an anxiety disorder?
A. Yes. Such a person may be suffering from obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). Most healthy people can identify with having some of the Symptoms of OCD, but the disorder is diagnosed only when repetitive activities consume at least an hour a day, are very distressing and interfere with daily life.

Q. How are anxiety disorders, diabetes and high blood pressure alike?
A. All three are real medical illnesses. Unfortunately, misconceptions about mental illnesses like anxiety disorders still exist. The good news is that effective treatments are available for anxiety disorders.

Q. What are symptoms of an anxiety disorder know as panic disorder?
A. Panic disorder is characterized by unexpected and repeat episodes of intense fear accompanied by physical symptoms that may include chest pain, shortness of breath, dizziness or abdominal distress

Q. Do anxiety disorders often occur with other illnesses?
A. Yes. It is common for anxiety disorders to accompany depression, eating disorders, substance abuse, or another anxiety disorder. They can coexist with heart disease, high blood pressure and other illness. In such instances, the accompanying disorders will also need to be treated.
If you or a family member exhibit symptoms of an anxiety disorder, it is important to see a doctor to explore possible treatment options.
For more information and free material on anxiety disorders, see the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) Anxiety Disorders Web Site at http://www.nimh.nih.gov/anxiety or call NIMH's toll free number at 1-88-88-Anxiety.