What Causes Anxiety Disorders?

People with anxiety disorders feel a sense of anxiety and worry that are not proportional to the actual danger. They may also experience physical symptoms, such as an increased heart rate, sweating, or breathlessness.

Both medication for anxiety disorder and depression and psychotherapy, also known as talk therapy are effective treatments for anxiety disorders. Each has its own benefits.

Genetics

Genetics are a key factor in the development of anxiety disorders. Studies have revealed that people with a background of anxiety are at greater chance of developing the condition. It is also evident that genetics can trigger anxiety to swell up in certain circumstances and increase the likelihood to experiencing symptoms of the condition. Scientists continue to discover which genes cause anxiety. They are hoping to eventually discover a way to stop people with certain genetics from developing anxiety disorders.

Anxiety can be passed down through families, and those with close relatives who have suffered from anxiety are more likely to develop it. Genetic studies on identical pairs twins have revealed that there is an association between anxiety disorders and genes. In fact one of the most important results of the research on anxiety's genetics is the discovery that a duplication of chromosome 15 is associated with a greater likelihood of suffering from panic and phobia disorder.

While researchers have a good understanding of the role genetics are involved in anxiety, it is important to note that anxiety can also be caused by environmental factors. This is the case for those with an ancestral history of anxiety and those who do not. Some studies have found that those who have experienced traumatic events or struggle with chronic stress or other mental health conditions are more likely to develop anxiety.

A wide variety of gene-based association studies (GWAS) have identified significant heritability in both current and past anxiety disorders and related characteristics. However the majority of the anxiety-related genes are not yet identified. Future GWAS require deeper and more systematized phenotyping in order to discover the specific mechanisms that connect genotype and phenotype. In particular it will be essential to determine whether there are differences between males and females in genetic susceptibility to anxiety and to distinguish disorder-specific from pleiotropic loci that are associated with a range of anxiety symptoms. It is also important to have a greater diversity of study samples in order to discover and replicate the vast majority of factors that affect anxiety. These are the major obstacles to advancing the field of anxiety genomics.

Environmental stress

People with anxiety disorders feel extreme anxiety and worry that is out of proportion to their situation. This can cause extreme stress and a negative impact on their lives including work, family, and social life. It is not known what causes anxiety disorders but there are numerous factors that could be involved. These could be genetic traits and brain chemistry, life experiences and environmental stressors. In addition certain health conditions and medications can contribute to anxiety.

People who have hereditary characteristics, like a tendency to be shy or nervous are more susceptible to anxiety. Genes can affect the way brain chemicals that control fear and emotions work. If these chemicals don't work properly, anxiety disorders can occur. People who have a family member with anxiety disorders are also at higher risk.

Life events that are stressful or negative like the death of a loved ones or suffering from a serious illness, can trigger anxiety disorders. If your feelings don't disappear and you are not sure if they are a medical issue, seek medical treatment.

The exposure to harmful substances, such as chemical exposure or pollution, is linked to higher levels of anxiety. Certain medical conditions like thyroid disorders can also increase the risk of developing anxiety disorder.

There are many ways to treat anxiety disorders. One of them is cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), a form of therapy that teaches new ways to think and behave. CBT can teach you how to face situations that trigger anxiety and help you overcome your fears. It can help you manage your worries and cut down on the amount of time you're spending worrying. CBT can be combined with other therapies, such as mindfulness meditation or group support groups.

It is important to find a treatment that is right for you. It is generally recommended to combine treatments like psychotherapy, medication and self-help. Discuss with your doctor any family history of anxiety. This can help them recognize anxiety-related symptoms and address them swiftly. Avoiding activities that trigger anxiety symptoms is essential. For example, avoid places where you've had bad experiences in the past.

Mental health issues

Everybody experiences anxiety at times It's the brain's way of reacting to stress and warning us about danger. However, when anxiety becomes persistent and overwhelming, it becomes a problem with day-to-day life. This is when it's time to consult a physician to get an evaluation and treatment.

People with anxiety disorders frequently suffer from other mental health disorders as well. Anxiety symptoms can manifest in people with bipolar disorder or depression. People with certain physical issues such as heart disease or diabetes, have an increased risk of developing anxiety. Anyone who has experienced trauma or abuse have an increased chance of developing anxiety, which is known as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

A variety of different medications can help reduce anxiety symptoms, but it's vital to discuss all the options with your physician. Different kinds of anxiety can be best drug for anxiety disorder treated with different medications.

The SSRIs and the SNRIs are widely used to treat anxiety. These include citalopram (Lexapro), the fluoxetine (Prozac), and duloxetine (Cymbalta). Antidepressants from a different class tricyclic antidepressants can also aid in reducing anxiety. They include imipramine, clomipramine and others.

Some over-the-counter medications herbal supplements, as well as illicit drugs can make anxiety symptoms worse. People suffering from anxiety disorders should also stay away from nicotine, caffeine, and alcohol.

Psychotherapy - or talk therapy -- can help those suffering from anxiety. It is usually conducted in small groups, and focuses on learning ways to cope with your anxiety. It can also help change your behaviors that cause anxiety, for example, staying away from stressful situations. You can also consider complementary treatments like mindfulness meditation and yoga. These techniques are beneficial for a large number of people suffering from anxiety. If your anxiety doesn't ease then you should talk to an expert psychologist or psychiatrist for further assistance.

Substance abuse

While everyone may feel anxious at time or another, a real anxiety disorder is a persistent feeling of fear and tension that affects daily life. Anxiety can be triggered by an event or situation such as a job or public speech. However, for certain people anxiety can become chronic and destructive. Individuals who suffer from co-occurring substance addiction and anxiety disorder need professional assistance. A dual diagnosis treatment center can offer the care and support needed to help you recover.

Substance abuse can mask the symptoms of an anxiety disorder and make it more difficult to identify. Alcohol and some drugs produce effects that resemble anxiety eating disorder, such as nervousness, agitation as well as irritability, restlessness, and anxiety. These symptoms also become more severe when you are in withdrawal. If anxiety and substance use disorders are intertwined, it can be difficult to distinguish whether the anxiety is caused by or caused by alcohol or drug use.

Some substances can actually cause anxiety, particularly stimulants such as cocaine or prescription medications used to treat attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). These medications increase activity in certain brain areas that are associated with anxiety and depression. As time passes, the user can develop a semi-permanent state of anxiety that gets worse when they stop using drugs or experience withdrawal.

According to the Anxiety Depression Association of America, research indicates that about 20 percent of people diagnosed with anxiety disorders also suffer from an addiction disorder. This is due to financial challenges as well as health issues and relationship conflicts, among other stressors can go hand with addiction. The severity of anxiety disorder and addiction can impede the treatment process, but it's vital to deal with both issues simultaneously.

It is possible to conquer anxiety and addiction simultaneously. The trick is to locate a dual diagnosis treatment center that can provide the appropriate combination of therapy for the individual. Click on the link to find out more about a facility near you offering dual diagnosis. The earlier you seek treatment the better your chances of successfully treating anxiety and addiction.