Anxiety disorders are illnesses that may cause overwhelming anxiety and fear that are chronic and unremitting, and that can grow progressively worse. Some people who have anxiety disorders are tormented by panic attacks, obsessive thoughts, flashbacks of traumatic events, nightmares, or countless frightening physical symptoms. It is common for an anxiety disorder to accompany depression, eating disorders, substance abuse, or another anxiety disorder. Fortunately, there are several types of treatment options, such as medications, psychotherapy, or a combination of both.