Anxiety is a natural and, often, adaptive response to stress or danger. The feelings of uncertainty can activate fear, concern, or apprehension. In some situations, anxiety can be helpful, as it can alert you to potential dangers and help you stay focused and alert. However, excessive or prolonged anxiety that interferes with your daily activities and quality of life is considered a mental health disorder. Common anxiety disorders include generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), panic disorder, social anxiety disorder, and specific phobias.
Anxiety disorder
Anxiety disorders are a group of mental health conditions characterized by excessive, persistent, and overwhelming worry and fear in everyday situations. These anxious feelings are disproportionate to the actual threat and can cause significant distress. People with anxiety disorders often experience physical symptoms such as rapid heartbeat, sweating, tremors, muscle tension, restlessness, fatigue, and difficulty concentrating. These symptoms can be debilitating and negatively affect several aspects of a person’s life, including work, relationships, and overall well-being.
Causes of anxiety
The exact causes of anxiety disorders are complex and may involve a combination of genetic, environmental, psychological, and developmental factors. Traumatic experiences, a family history of anxiety disorders, and imbalances in neurotransmitters, or brain chemicals, are some of the factors that can contribute to the development of anxiety disorders.
Treatment
Like depression, anxiety disorders are treatable conditions. Treatment approaches often include therapy, medications, and lifestyle changes.
If you are experiencing excessive anxiety you will benefit from seeking help. A mental health professional can provide a proper diagnosis and the development of a personalized treatment plan to effectively manage your symptoms.