Which disorder is classified as a type of anxiety?

Panic Disorder is classified as an anxiety disorder because it is characterized by recurrent and unexpected panic attacks, which are sudden periods of intense fear or discomfort. During these attacks, individuals may experience a range of physical and psychological symptoms, including heart palpitations, shortness of breath, dizziness, and a feeling of impending doom. The hallmark of Panic Disorder is the anticipation of future attacks, leading to significant behavioral changes, such as avoidance of situations where an attack might occur. This aligns it closely with the definition of anxiety disorders, which often involve excessive fear or worry.

In contrast, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, while it has anxiety components, is primarily characterized by intrusive thoughts and compulsive behaviors. Dissociative Identity Disorder relates more to trauma and identity fragmentation rather than anxiety itself, and Borderline Personality Disorder revolves around emotional regulation, identities, and interpersonal relationships, which do not primarily fit the anxiety disorder classification.