What Causes Anxiety Disorders?
Individuals with anxiety disorders feel a sense of fear and concern that are not proportional to the actual threat. They may also have physical symptoms like an increased heart rate, sweating, or breathlessness.
There are two kinds of treatment for anxiety disorders, medication and psychotherapy (also known as talk therapy). Each has its own benefits.
Genetics
Genetics play a significant role in the development of anxiety disorders . Research has shown that people with a history of anxiety are at a higher chance of developing the condition. It also appears that genes can trigger anxiety to swell up in certain situations and make people more prone to develop symptoms of the condition. Scientists are still trying to determine the genes that cause anxiety. They hope to find a way that will prevent anxiety disorders in people who have certain genetics.
Anxiety runs in families and people who have close relatives with anxiety are more likely to suffer from it. Genetic studies on identical twins have also demonstrated that there is a connection between genes and anxiety disorders. In fact, one of the most important results of the research on anxiety's genetics is the discovery that a duplication at the chromosome 15 region is linked to higher risk of suffering from panic and phobia disorder.
Researchers have a clear understanding of the role genetics plays in anxiety. However it is important to keep in mind that environmental factors can also cause anxiety. This is true for people with a family history and those without. Some studies have found that people who go through traumatic events or struggle with chronic stress or other mental health problems are more likely to develop anxiety.
Numerous gene-based association (GWAS) studies have shown significant heritability in anxiety disorders, both in the present and past, and the traits associated with them. The vast majority of loci related to anxiety have not yet been identified. Future GWAS require more in-depth and systematized phenotyping in order to determine the specific mechanisms that connect genotype to the phenotype. In particular, it will be necessary to determine if there are sex differences in the susceptibility of a person's genes to anxiety and to distinguish disorder-specific from pleiotropic loci that influence a range of anxiety manifestations. It is also essential to have a larger variety of study samples in order to determine and replicate the majority of genes that are associated with anxiety. These are the main obstacles to the field of anxiety genomes.
Environmental stress
People suffering from anxiety disorders experience anxiety and fear that is intense and out of proportion to the situation. This can cause a lot of distress and impact on their lives, affecting family, work and social life. It isn't known what causes anxiety disorders however there are a variety of factors that could be at play. Genetic factors, brain chemistry, environmental stressors and life experiences are all possible causes. Certain medical conditions and medications can contribute to anxiety.
People who have hereditary traits, such as an inclination to be shy or anxious, may be more prone to anxiety. Genetics influence how brain chemicals that control the processes of fear and emotion and if these chemical aren't functioning properly this can lead to anxiety disorders. People who have a parent with anxiety disorders are also at higher risk.
Anxiety disorders can be caused by stressful or negative life events such as the death or illness of a loved one. If your feelings don't subside and you are not sure if they are a medical issue, seek medical attention.
Exposure to toxic substances, like exposure to chemicals or pollution can cause an increase in levels of anxiety. Some medical conditions such as thyroid disorders can also increase the risk of developing anxiety disorder.
There are a variety of treatments for anxiety disorders, including cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) which teaches various ways of thinking and acting. CBT can help you learn how to handle situations that cause anxiety and also overcome your fears. It can also help you to manage your anxieties and reduce the amount of time you are spending on them. CBT can be paired with other therapies such as mindfulness meditation or support groups for groups of people.
It is important to choose a treatment that works for you. The most effective method is often an amalgamation of treatments, including psychotherapy, medication and self-help. If you have a family history of anxiety, be sure to share this information with your physician. This will help them identify anxiety symptoms and treat them quickly. Avoiding activities that trigger anxiety symptoms is important. For example, avoid areas where you've experienced negative experiences in the past.
Mental health conditions
Everyone feels anxious occasionally This is the brain's way of responding to stress and alerting us to danger. If anxiety becomes chronic, it can interfere with everyday life. This is when it's time to consult a physician to have an evaluation and treatment.
People with anxiety disorders frequently have other mental health issues as well. Anxiety symptoms may be present in people with bipolar or depression. People with particular physical health issues, such as diabetes or heart disease, are also at risk for anxiety. Anyone who has experienced abuse or trauma are at a greater chance of experiencing anxiety, also known as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
There are a variety of medication that can help reduce anxiety symptoms. It is important to discuss your options with your doctor. Different types of anxiety can be better treated with different medications.
The SSRIs and the SNRIs are widely used to treat anxiety. These include citalopram, fluoxetine and duloxetine. Antidepressants in a different class, tricyclic antidepressants, also aid in anxiety. These include imipramine and clomipramine.
Some herbal supplements, over-the-counter drugs, and illicit drugs can cause anxiety-related symptoms to worsen. People suffering from anxiety disorders should also avoid alcohol, caffeine, and nicotine.
People who suffer from anxiety may benefit from psychotherapy, or talk therapy. generalized anxiety disorder is typically conducted in small groups and focuses on managing your anxiety. It can also help change your behaviors that cause anxiety, like avoiding stressful situations. You might also try complementary treatments, like yoga and mindfulness meditation. Many people suffering from anxiety have found relief using these methods. If your anxiety doesn't improve, you may need to consult an expert psychiatrist or psychologist for additional help.
Substance abuse
Although everyone is likely to feel anxious at some point, an actual anxiety disorder is a constant anxiety and fear that interferes with daily life. Anxiety can be provoked by an event or situation such as a job or public speaking. For some, anxiety can become chronic and destructive. People who have a co-occurring drug addiction and anxiety disorder should seek professional help. A dual diagnosis treatment center can offer the assistance and care required for recovery.
Substance abuse can mask symptoms of anxiety disorders and make it difficult to diagnose. Certain drugs and alcohol cause effects that resemble anxiety, such as nervousness, agitation as well as irritability, restlessness, and anxiety. Symptoms can also be triggered by withdrawal. It is often difficult to determine if a person's anxiety disorder and addiction disorder are connected.
Some substances can actually cause anxiety, particularly stimulants such as cocaine or prescription medications used to treat attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). These substances increase the activity of certain brain regions that are involved in depression and anxiety. Over time, a user can experience a continuous state of anxiety. This is worsened by stopping the drug or experiencing withdrawal.
According to the Anxiety Depression Association of America, research shows that approximately 20 percent of patients diagnosed with anxiety disorders also have a substance abuse disorder. Health issues, financial problems, relationship problems and other stressors are typically associated with substance abuse. It is essential to treat both anxiety disorders and addiction simultaneously.
It is possible to conquer addiction and anxiety simultaneously. It is crucial to locate an addiction treatment center that provides the best combination of therapies for each person. Click on the pin to find out more about a facility near you offering dual diagnosis. The sooner you seek help, the more likely that your addiction and anxiety can be successfully treated.