What Causes Anxiety Disorders?

People suffering from anxiety disorders typically feel fearful and worry that are out of proportion to the actual danger. They may also experience physical symptoms, such as a rapid pulse, sweating, or shortness in breath.

There are two kinds of treatment for anxiety disorders, medication and psychotherapy (also called talk therapy). Each has its own benefits.

Genetics

Genetics is one of the major factors that contribute to anxiety disorders. People with a history of anxiety in their family are at a higher risk of developing this condition. It also appears that genes can trigger anxiety to swell up in certain situations and increase the likelihood to experience symptoms of the condition. Scientists are still trying to determine the genes that cause anxiety. They hope to find an approach to stop anxiety disorders in those with certain genetics.

Anxiety can run in families, and those with close relatives who have had anxiety issues are more likely to develop it themselves. Genetic studies on identical pairs twins have demonstrated that there is a link between anxiety disorders and genes. In fact one of the most significant discoveries in the study of anxiety's genetics is the discovery that a duplication on the chromosome 15 gene is associated with an increased risk of suffering from phobias and panic disorder.

While researchers have a clear understanding of the role that genetics are involved in anxiety, it's crucial to recognize that the condition can also be caused by environmental factors. This is the case for people with an anxiety-related family history and those who don't. Certain studies have demonstrated that those who have experienced trauma or experience chronic stress or other mental health issues are more likely to experience anxiety.

A large number of gene-based association studies (GWAS) have identified significant heritability for both past and present anxiety disorders and other related characteristics. However, the vast majority of the anxiety-related genes have not yet been discovered. Future GWAS require more in-depth and systematized phenotyping in order to discover the specific mechanisms that link genotype to the phenotype. In particular it will be essential to determine if there are sex differences in the susceptibility of a person's genes to anxiety and to differentiate specific disorders from pleiotropic ones that affect a variety of anxiety-related phenotypes. It is also important to have a greater diversity of research samples in order to discover and replicate the vast majority of genes that are associated with anxiety. These are major hurdles to progressing the field of anxiety genomics.

Environmental stress

People suffering from anxiety disorders experience intense fear and worry, which is out of proportion to their situation. This can cause significant stress and affect their lives, affecting their work, family and social life. It isn't known what causes anxiety disorders, but there are many factors that cry of anxiety. This will help them identify anxiety-related symptoms and treat them quickly. It is also essential to avoid activities that can trigger anxiety symptoms for example, avoiding places where you have had negative experiences in the past.

Mental health issues

Every person has anxiety from time to moment. It's the brain's response to stress, and also a sign of danger. When anxiety becomes chronic and overwhelming, it can cause problems with daily life. It's crucial to speak with an expert doctor and receive an evaluation.

Anxiety disorders are usually associated with other mental health conditions. Anxiety symptoms may be present in people with bipolar or depression. People with certain physical issues like diabetes or heart disease have a greater risk of anxiety. People who have experienced abuse or trauma are more likely to develop anxiety, also known as post-traumatic disorder (PTSD).

There are a myriad of types of medication that can help reduce anxiety symptoms. It is important to discuss your options with your doctor. Different types of anxiety are best treated with different medications.

For example, SSRIs and SNRIs, which are utilized to treat depression, also aid in reducing anxiety. They include citalopram (Lexapro) as well as fluoxetine (Prozac), and duloxetine (Cymbalta). Tricyclic antidepressants belong to a different category of antidepressants that can help with anxiety. These include imipramine, clomipramine and other antidepressants.

Certain prescription medications herbal supplements, prescription medications and illicit substances can make anxiety symptoms worse. People with anxiety disorders should stay away from caffeine, alcohol, and nicotine.

Talk therapy - also known as psychotherapy -- can help people suffering from anxiety. It's usually done in small groups and focuses on learning methods to deal with your anxieties. It can also assist in changing the behaviors that cause anxiety, such as staying away from stressful situations. You can also try other complementary treatments like mindfulness meditation and yoga. Many people with anxiety experience relief from these methods. But if your anxiety doesn't improve then you should talk to a psychiatrist or psychologist for further assistance.

Substance abuse

Everyone feels anxious at times, but a true anxiety disorder is a persistent fear and tension that interferes in daily life. Anxiety can be caused by a situation or event like a job or public speaking. However, for certain people anxiety can become chronic and even debilitating. Individuals who suffer from co-occurring substance addiction and anxiety disorder should seek professional help. A dual diagnosis treatment facility can anxiety disorder cause nausea offer the assistance and care needed for recovery.

Substance abuse can mask symptoms of anxiety and make it difficult to identify. Alcohol and certain drugs can cause effects that are similar to anxiety, such as nervousness, agitation, restlessness, What Causes Anxiety Disorders and irritability. These symptoms also become more severe during withdrawal. It can be difficult to tell if a person's anxiety disorder and substance abuse disorder are interconnected.

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 the activity of certain parts of the brain that are involved in depression and anxiety. In time, users can experience a continuous state of anxiety. This can be exacerbated by stopping the drug or experiencing withdrawal.

According to the Anxiety Depression Association of America, what causes anxiety disorders research has shown that about 20 percent of patients diagnosed with anxiety disorders also have an addiction disorder. This is because financial difficulties, health problems and relationship conflicts, among other stressors are often found in hand with substance abuse. It is crucial to treat addiction and anxiety disorders simultaneously.

It is possible to overcome both anxiety and addiction simultaneously. The key is to find a dual diagnosis treatment center that provides the best combination of treatment for the person. Click on a pin below to find out more about an facility near you that provides the dual diagnosis. The earlier you seek treatment the greater your chance of successfully treating anxiety and addiction.