Which class of disorders is characterized by excessive feelings of apprehension and anxiety?

The correct choice encapsulates a broad category of mental health conditions known as anxiety disorders, which are specifically defined by an individual's experience of excessive apprehension, worry, and fear. These feelings of anxiety can manifest in various ways, such as generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder, social anxiety disorder, and specific phobias, among others.

In anxiety disorders, the apprehension often becomes overwhelming to the point where it can interfere with daily functioning and overall quality of life. Symptoms may include persistent worry, restlessness, difficulty concentrating, irritability, muscle tension, and sleep disturbances. These disorders are rooted in both genetic and environmental factors and are commonly treated through a combination of therapy and medication.

In contrast, depressive disorders primarily focus on mood disturbances such as persistent sadness and loss of interest, personality disorders involve enduring patterns of behavior, and psychotic disorders are characterized by breaks from reality, such as hallucinations or delusions. Although all these categories can cause significant distress, it is the anxiety disorders that specifically highlight excessive feelings of apprehension and anxiety as their central feature.