What Are Anxiety Disorders?

People with anxiety disorders have anxieties and fears that are out of proportion to a specific situation or in the case of generalized anxiety disorder, they worry about a wide range of situations. They also have difficulty managing their symptoms.

The symptoms of anxiety disorders begin in the early years of childhood. The cause of anxiety disorders is unclear. However, genetics and life experiences may play a part.

Symptoms

Everyone experiences anxiety at times the constant worry and fear that is difficult to control and causes disruption to everyday life could be a sign of an anxiety disorder. Anxiety disorders include generalized anxiety (GAD) as well as panic, obsessive compulsive disorder and specific phobias.

GAD is characterized by overwhelming and uncontrollable anxiety. They may have trouble concentrating and are often worried about health, money or work. Panic disorder is characterized by intense, brief episodes of discomfort and fear that can happen without warning. The symptoms include chest pain or palpitations, breathing issues or dizziness. People with phobias experience fears of certain objects, situations, or places. Examples include spiders, heights or enclosed spaces. OCD is defined by the repetition of compulsive behaviors that are employed to manage anxiety and ease the feelings of tension. People with post-traumatic stress disorder have trouble getting rid of disturbing terrifying memories that lead to flashbacks and nightmares.

The causes of anxiety disorders haven't been understood in a complete manner. However they could involve a combination factors. Some research suggests that both genetics and the environment of the individual are crucial. Generalized anxiety disorder, for example is a condition that can be passed down through families. Traumatic or stressful childhood experiences also increase the risk of developing anxiety disorders. Anxiety disorders are more common in people with chronic medical conditions and those who abuse drugs or alcohol.

The majority of anxiety disorders are well when treated. Psychotherapy, or talk therapy, and medications can help ease the symptoms of anxiety disorders. Cognitive behavioral therapy is a kind of psychotherapy that helps people learn to think and act in a way that helps them feel less anxious. Beta-blockers and medications for anxiety used to treat high pressure can alleviate physical symptoms such as shakes or rapid heartbeats. A healthcare provider will determine the most effective medication and dosage for each person. Early treatment can make anxiety disorders easier.

Diagnosis

Most people feel anxious at times -- for example, before giving a speech or taking an important test. If these feelings persist and excessive, irrational and disrupt your daily life it could be an indication that you suffer from an anxiety disorder.

A mental health specialist will determine whether you suffer from anxiety disorders by using the criteria of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders. They will inquire about your symptoms and the time they first began, how long they lasted, if they are getting worse, or how they impact your life. They will also check for any other conditions that might cause similar symptoms, like thyroid issues or depression.

Different types of anxiety disorders exhibit different symptoms. Your doctor will determine the type of anxiety disorder that is causing your problems and formulate the treatment plan. This could include medication, psychotherapy or both.

Some people are more at risk of developing anxiety disorders than other. Certain people are at a higher chance of developing an anxiety disorder than others. This is the case for those with a family history, children who have experienced or witnessed traumatizing events, as well as those with specific medical conditions such as systemic lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, or sleep apnea. Anxiety is more likely occur in conjunction with other physiological or mental illnesses, such as depression or cardiovascular disease.

People suffering from anxiety disorders typically struggle to admit they are suffering from anxiety or seeking treatment. This is often due to social stigma, a lack of awareness that anxiety disorder is an illness that can be treated or the lack of access.

Anxiety disorders are difficult to treat, but with the right support, most people improve. Discuss with your doctor the ways to manage anxiety and stick to your treatment program. Follow the prescribed medication, and take part in all therapy sessions. Avoid alcohol and nicotine since they can trigger anxiety symptoms. Open up to your family and friends and join a group of friends with the same issue. This will help you deal with the issue and share advice. Include your loved ones in your treatment, and try to break the cycle of worry by focusing more on things you love like hobbies or sports.

Treatment

Psychotherapy, medication, and other complementary techniques can be used to treat some kinds of anxiety disorders. Antidepressants and other benzodiazepines can be used to treat anxiety. Some people may need to test a variety of medications before finding the one that works for them. Caffeine, a variety of over-the-counter or prescription drugs, illicit substances and herbal supplements can cause anxiety or trigger reactions with prescribed medicines. Any changes in the use of drugs should be discussed with a physician.

Treatment for anxiety disorders usually involves an amalgamation of therapy and medication. Therapy can help you deal with your symptoms, and help you change negative beliefs and thoughts that cause anxiety. It can also help you practice relaxation and stress-reducing techniques like deep muscle relaxation, meditation and breathing exercises.

Therapy for anxiety includes cognitive behavioral therapy that helps you learn new ways of thinking and acting to reduce anxiety. Exposure therapy is another option that lets you slowly confront the factors that cause your anxiety. It may also include alternative approaches to health like acupuncture and mindfulness.

If you have severe anxiety, your doctor may prescribe a brief course of fast-acting benzodiazepines to calm your symptoms. If you are expressing suicidal thoughts, you must be evaluated by the emergency department.

Medications can help relieve the symptoms of anxiety disorders, however they're not the cure. They cannot remove the underlying cause, and must be taken regularly. Some of the most effective treatments for anxiety disorders include pharmacotherapy with psychotherapy like cognitive behavioral therapy or exposure therapy.

You can reduce the symptoms of anxiety by doing regular exercises, avoiding unhealthy foods and drinking alcohol in moderate amounts. Smoking cigarettes and getting enough sleep can aid in reducing anxiety. Maintaining social connections is crucial to avoid feeling isolated and suffering from anxiety-related symptoms. You can search the ADAA Find-a Therapist database to locate a Therapist near you, or visit BetterHelp, a service that connects clients with licensed therapists starting at just $49.

Prevention

Humans are programmed to feel anxiety disorder can Be cured and fear in certain circumstances. Our bodies are trained to defend ourselves against or escape a threat. If these feelings persist and become a problem with everyday life they are referred to as anxiety disorders. Anxiety symptoms can be triggered by many factors including stress, genetics, or trauma.

Treatment is available for many people with anxiety disorders. First, you should discuss your symptoms with your primary healthcare provider. Your doctor will review your health and refer you to mental health professionals should it be necessary.

The most effective treatments for anxiety disorders include psychotherapy and medication. Talk therapy can help you understand how to manage your emotions and alter negative thought patterns that fuel your anxiety. Medications may help you reduce your symptoms and help you focus on healthy habits. Antidepressants are a few of the medications used to combat anxiety. Beta blockers and benzodiazepines are other examples.

Relaxation techniques like meditation and deep breathing can aid in reducing anxiety. Avoiding substances that can alter your mood, for example caffeine, can help. Regular exercise can help reduce stress. If you are having trouble coping with your anxieties try to be social more often or pick up a new hobby to keep your mind off of your worries.

It is important to recognize that anxiety disorders usually start in adolescence or childhood and tend to run in families. People who have experienced an emotional or stressful time in their lives, such as abuse as a child, or traumatizing loss, are at heightened risk of developing anxiety disorders.

The USPSTF recommends screening adults for anxiety disorders, which includes pregnant women and postpartum women. People who are at a higher risk of developing anxiety disorders should be evaluated on a case-by-case basis taking into consideration their individual risks and advantages. In the absence evidence-based guidelines on screening frequency, physicians should make use of their clinical judgment when assessing the risk factors, comorbidities, and life events of patients to determine if additional screening is needed.