What Are Anxiety Disorders?

People suffering from anxiety disorders have anxiety and fears that are out of proportion to the situation. In generalized anxiety disorders, they worry about a variety of circumstances. They also have trouble managing their symptoms.

The symptoms of anxiety disorders typically begin in childhood. The root cause of anxiety disorders is not known. However, genetics and life experiences may be a factor.

Signs and symptoms

An anxiety disorder is diagnosed when you experience excessive anxiety or fear, which is difficult to control. It can affect your daily routine. Anxiety disorders include generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) as well as panic disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder and specific phobias, as well as post-traumatic stress disorder.

GAD is characterized by a sense of overwhelming and uncontrollable anxiety. They may experience difficulty concentrating and be constantly worried about their health, finances or their job. Panic disorder is characterized by intense, brief episodes of fear and discomfort that can happen without warning. Signs of the disorder include chest pain, palpitations, breathing difficulties, or dizziness. People who suffer from phobias experience a fear of certain objects, situations, or places, such as spiders, public speaking, heights or spaces that are enclosed. People with OCD are prone to repetitive, obsessive behaviours as a way to cope with their fears and reducing the associated feelings of tension or discomfort. People suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder are having trouble getting rid of painful terrifying memories that can trigger nightmares and flashbacks.

The causes of anxiety disorders aren't yet fully identified, but they may have a number of causes. Some research suggests that a person's genetics and environment are both significant. For instance generalized anxiety disorder tends be passed down through families, and traumatic or stressful experiences in childhood can increase the likelihood of developing an anxiety disorder. Anxiety disorders are more frequent in people with chronic medical conditions as well as those who use alcohol or drugs.

The good news is that the majority of anxiety disorders respond well to treatment. Psychotherapy, also known as talk therapy, and medications can alleviate symptoms of anxiety disorders. Cognitive behavioral therapy is a kind of psychotherapy that helps people learn to think and react in a way that makes them feel less anxious. Beta-blockers and anti-anxiety medication used to treat high pressure may help alleviate physical symptoms, such as rapid heartbeat or shaking. A healthcare provider will determine the most effective dosage and medication for each patient. Early treatment can make the treatment of anxiety disorders less difficult.

Diagnosis

People are often anxious at times -- for example, before giving an address or taking an important test. If the anxiety is persistent and excessive, irrational, and interfere with daily life, it may be a sign that you have an anxiety disorder.

A mental health specialist will diagnose anxiety disorders using the criteria of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders. They will ask about your symptoms, the time they started and how long they've lasted, whether they are getting worse, and how much they affect your daily life. They will also look for other conditions that could cause similar symptoms, for example thyroid issues or depression.

Different types of anxiety disorders exhibit different symptoms. Your doctor will determine which type is causing your anxiety and formulate a treatment strategy. This may include psychotherapy, medication, or both.

Certain people are more at chance of developing an anxiety disorder than others. Some people are at greater risk of developing an anxiety disorder than others. This is the case for those with a history of family members and children who have had or witnessed traumatizing events, and those suffering from particular medical conditions, such as Rheumatoid Arthritis, systemic Lupus or sleep apnea. It is also more common for anxiety to be associated with other mental or physical ailments like depression or heart disease.

People suffering from anxiety disorders typically aren't able to admit that they have a problem or seeking treatment. This is often due to social stigma or a lack of awareness that anxiety disorders can be treated condition, or a lack of access to care.

Anxiety disorders can be challenging to treat, but with the right treatment, many people improve. Talk with your doctor or therapist about what helps you cope and adhere to your treatment program. Make sure to take your medication as prescribed and attend therapy appointments. Also, stay away from nicotine and alcohol, as they can cause your anxiety symptoms to worsen. Be open with your family and friends, and join a group of friends who suffer from the same condition. This will allow you to cope and share your experiences with others. Involve your loved ones in your treatment, and attempt to end the cycle of anxiety by spending more time on things you love like sports or hobbies.

Treatment

Psychotherapy, medication, and other complementary techniques can be used to treat some types of anxiety disorders. The treatments for anxiety include benzodiazepines and antidepressants. Some people may need to try a variety of different medications before finding one that works for them. Caffeine, certain over-the-counter and prescription drugs, illegal substances and herbal supplements can cause anxiety or trigger reactions with prescribed medicines. Any changes in drug use should be discussed with a physician.

A combination of therapy and medication is often the best approach to manage anxiety disorders. Therapy can help you cope with your symptoms and work on changing your negative thoughts and beliefs that cause anxiety. Therapy can also help you practice relaxing and stress-reduction techniques, such as deep muscle relaxation, meditation and breathing exercises.

Therapy for anxiety includes cognitive behavioral therapy, which provides you with new ways of thinking and acting to decrease anxiety. Exposure therapy is another option, in which you gradually confront the things that trigger anxiety. It can also include alternative approaches to health like acupuncture and mindfulness.

If you are suffering from extreme anxiety, your doctor can prescribe a short course of fast-acting benzodiazepines to calm your symptoms. If you are experiencing suicidal thoughts it is best to visit the emergency room.


The medication may ease symptoms, but they do not cure anxiety disorders. They do not remove the underlying cause, and must be used regularly. Some of the most effective treatments for anxiety disorders include psychotherapy and pharmacotherapy like cognitive behavioral therapy or exposure therapy.

You can avoid some signs of anxiety by practicing regular exercise, avoiding unhealthy food and drinking alcohol in moderation. Sleeping enough and staying away from nicotine can help. Maintaining social connections is essential to avoid isolation and anxiety-related symptoms. You can locate a Therapist in your area by searching ADAA's Find-a-Therapist database. You can also visit BetterHelp, an online therapy platform which matches you with a licensed therapist for as little as $49 for a session.

The following is a list of preventions.

As humans we are programmed to feel anxious and fear in certain situations. It is our body's way of training for fighting or fleeing from a threat. But, if these feelings linger and begin to affect our daily lives and become a problem, it's considered to be an anxiety disorder. The symptoms of anxiety are caused by a variety of causes like genetics, stress and trauma.

The positive side is that many people suffering from anxiety disorder can overcome it with assistance of treatment. The first step is to speak with your primary care provider about your symptoms. Your doctor will assess your situation and recommend you to a mental health professional when needed.

Psychotherapy and medication are two of the most effective treatments available for anxiety disorders. Talk therapy can help you learn to manage your emotions and modify negative thought patterns that fuel anxiety. The use of medications can reduce the symptoms and make it easier to focus on healthy behaviors. Some examples of medicines that treat anxiety are antidepressants, beta blockers, as well as benzodiazepines.

Practicing relaxation techniques, like meditation and deep breathing, can also reduce your anxiety. Avoiding substances like caffeine that can alter your mood can be helpful. Regular exercise can also reduce stress. Try to make more friends or find a new hobby in case you're having trouble dealing with your anxiety.

It's important that you know that anxiety disorders tend to begin in early adolescence or the beginning of childhood and can be passed down through families. People who have been through a difficult period in their lives for example, abuse in childhood or a loss that was severe, could be more at chance of developing an anxiety disorder.

The USPSTF recommends screening adults for anxiety disorders, which includes postpartum and pregnant women. People who are at a higher risk of having an anxiety disorder should be assessed on a case-by-case basis, taking into account their individual risks and advantages. In the absence of evidence regarding the optimal frequency of screening the clinicians are advised to use their clinical judgement when evaluating a patient's risk factors, comorbid conditions and life events to determine if additional screening is warranted.