What Causes Anxiety Disorders?

Individuals with anxiety disorders feel a sense of anxiety and worry that are insignificant to the actual threat. They may also experience physical symptoms like sweating, a rapid pulse or a shortness of breath.

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

Genetics

Genetics is one of the major factors that contribute to anxiety disorders. People with an anxiety history in their family are at a higher-than-average risk of developing this disorder. It also appears that genes can trigger anxiety to swell up in certain circumstances and make people more prone to develop symptoms of the condition. Researchers are working to determine which genes cause anxiety. They hope to find a way of preventing people with certain genetics from developing anxiety disorders.

Anxiety is prevalent in families and people who have close relatives with anxiety are more likely to develop the condition. Genetic studies on identical twins have also proven that there is a link between genes and anxiety disorders. In fact, one of the most important findings in the research on anxiety’s genetics is the discovery that a duplication at the chromosome 15 gene is associated with an increased risk of suffering from panic and phobia disorder.

While researchers have a clear understanding of the role genetics are involved in anxiety, it’s important to note that the condition can also be caused by environmental factors. This is the case for those with an anxiety-related family history and those who do not. Some studies have found that people who experience traumatic events or struggle with chronic stress or other mental health problems are more likely to develop anxiety.

A wide variety of gene-based association studies (GWAS) have revealed a substantial heritability for both past and current anxiety disorder s and other related traits. However the majority of anxiety-related loci are not yet identified. Future GWAS will require more in-depth and more systematic phenotyping to discover the specific mechanisms that connect genotype and the phenotype. In particular, it will be necessary to determine whether there are differences between males and females in genetic susceptibility to anxiety and to differentiate specific disorders from pleiotropic ones that influence a range of anxiety-related manifestations. Additionally, more variety in the study samples is required to identify and replicate the majority of genes that are associated with anxiety. These are the main challenges to the study of anxiety genomes.

Environmental stress

Individuals with anxiety disorders experience anxiety and fear which is in proportion to their circumstances. This can cause a lot of distress and impact on their lives, impacting family, work and social life. The root cause of anxiety disorders is not fully known, but a variety of factors may be involved. These include hereditary traits and brain chemistry; life experiences; and environmental stressors. Additionally certain medical conditions and medications can trigger anxiety.

People who have hereditary characteristics, like a tendency to be shy or anxious are more susceptible to anxiety. Genes affect how the brain chemicals that control fears and emotions function and if these chemical aren’t functioning properly, it can result in anxiety disorders. People with a close relative who has an anxiety disorder are at a higher risk.

Anxiety disorders can be triggered by stressful or negative life circumstances, such as the death or illness of a loved-one. If your feelings don’t disappear, you should seek medical attention.

Anxiety levels can be increased due to exposure to toxic substances, such as pollution and chemical exposure. Certain medical conditions, such as thyroid disorders can also increase the risk of developing anxiety disorder.

There are a myriad of ways to treat anxiety disorders, such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), which teaches various ways of thinking and behaving. CBT can help you learn to handle situations that cause anxiety and help you overcome your anxiety. It can help you deal with your worries, and reduce the amount of time you’re spending worrying. CBT can be combined with other treatments, such as mindfulness meditation or group support groups.

It is essential to find a treatment that is right for you. It is often best to combine treatments like psychotherapy, medication and self-help. If you have a family history of anxiety, be sure to discuss this information with your doctor. This will enable them to identify signs of anxiety to be able to treat them as soon as they can. Avoiding activities that cause anxiety is important. For instance avoid places where you’ve had bad experiences in the past.

Mental health conditions

Everyone experiences anxiety from time to time – it’s the brain’s way to react to stress and alerting us to danger. When anxiety becomes chronic and overwhelming, it interferes with the daily routine. It is important to talk to your doctor and receive an assessment.

Anxiety disorders are typically accompanied by other mental health conditions. For example, those with depression or bipolar disorder may have anxiety symptoms. People who suffer from certain physical ailments such as diabetes or heart disease have a greater risk of anxiety. Anyone who has suffered abuse or trauma are more likely to develop anxiety, also known as post-traumatic disorder (PTSD).

A variety of different medications can reduce anxiety symptoms, but it’s crucial to discuss all the options with your physician. Some types of drugs work better for different types of anxiety.

SSRIs and SNRIs are commonly used to treat anxiety. These include citalopram (Lexapro) and Fluoxetine (Prozac) and duloxetine (Cymbalta). Antidepressants of different classes, tricyclic antidepressants, also aid in reducing anxiety. These include imipramine, Clomipramine and many other antidepressants.

Certain herbal supplements, prescription drugs, and illicit substances can exacerbate anxiety symptoms. People suffering from anxiety disorders should stay away from caffeine, alcohol, and nicotine.

People suffering from anxiety can benefit from psychotherapy or talk therapy. It usually takes place in small groups and focuses on dealing with your anxieties. It will also help you to change the habits that trigger anxiety, like staying clear of stressful situations. You can also try complementary therapies like mindfulness meditation and yoga. Many people suffering from anxiety find relief through these methods. If your anxiety doesn’t improve then you should talk to a psychiatrist or psychologist for more help.

Substance abuse

Everyone feels anxious at times However, a real anxiety disorder is one that causes constant anxiety and fear that causes problems in everyday life. Anxiety can be provoked by a situation or event such as a job or public speaking. However, for certain people anxiety can become chronic and even destructive. It’s important for people who suffer from a co-occurring anxiety disorder as well as a substance abuse issues to seek professional assistance. A dual diagnosis treatment center can provide the necessary care and support to recover.

Substance abuse can mask the symptoms of anxiety disorders and make it difficult to recognize. Alcohol and some drugs produce symptoms that resemble anxiety like agitation, nervousness, restlessness, and irritability. Symptoms can also be triggered by withdrawal. It can be difficult to tell if a person’s anxiety disorder and substance abuse disorder are intertwined.

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

According to the Anxiety Depression Association of America, research shows that approximately 20 percent of people diagnosed with anxiety disorders also suffer from a substance abuse disorder. This is due to financial issues and health issues, relationship conflicts and other stressors can go hand with substance abuse. It’s important to treat addiction and anxiety disorders simultaneously.

It’s possible to overcome anxiety and addiction at the same time. It’s important to find an addiction treatment center that can provide the appropriate combination of treatments for each person. Click here to find out more information about the nearest facility that offers dual diagnosis. The sooner you seek treatment, the better your chances of getting the treatment you need for addiction and anxiety.