Do you frequently feel uneasy, agitated, or consumed by worries about potential problems? Anxiety can disrupt your success at work or school, negatively impact family life, strain romantic relationships, and complicate social interactions.
Key points
- Different people experience anxiety in different ways
- Anxiety generally responds positively to treatment
- You can learn to identify the symptoms of anxiety
- Select an effective treatment approach for anxiety
Quick navigation
Overview
Do you often feel anxious, uneasy, unmotivated, or struggle with relationship issues? Do intrusive thoughts frequently bother you? Do you regularly feel insecure and worry about others’ opinions of you? These emotional challenges might be due to an anxiety disorder. Thankfully, anxiety typically responds well to treatment.
Anxiety is extremely common
The National Institute of Mental Health reports that over one in five U.S. adults aged 18 to 60 experienced an anxiety disorder in the past year.
Even before COVID-19, the prevalence of anxiety was increasing. The pandemic only intensified this long-term trend. Both before and during the pandemic, psychologists and social workers noted a rise in the severity and frequency of emotional issues. The “Hedonometer” at the University of Vermont even recorded the lowest level of human happiness ever observed in the United States.
Modern life can be a catalyst for anxiety. Factors such as working from home, reduced social interactions, less time with friends, weakened family connections, increased time indoors, and extensive screen time all contribute to the rise in anxiety. Many individuals struggle to manage their stress, and some turn to alcohol or other unhealthy behaviors as a way to cope.
Anxiety levels, once elevated, tend to stay high or get higher
We are all naturally wired to respond to anxiety. When our brain detects threats, like a bear appearing in the woods or an oncoming speeding car, anxiety triggers us to react to the danger. For instance, we might rush to the gate if we’re worried about missing a flight, or we may get an extra boost of energy to meet a work deadline.
If we don’t respond effectively to an anxiety trigger or if the trigger lingers, we can become trapped in stress-induced mental patterns. This can lead to the development of unhealthy and negative coping mechanisms, keeping us anxious even after the original trigger is gone.
Types of anxiety disorders
Anxiety manifests uniquely in individuals and can vary throughout different stages of life. Conditions such as generalized anxiety disorder, panic attacks, social anxiety, and specific phobias are all categorized as anxiety disorders.
Symptoms
Your symptoms may vary depending on the specific type of anxiety disorder you have.
Social anxiety may make it challenging for you to speak up at work or school, participate in social situations, or even leave the house.
Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) typically includes ongoing feelings of anxiety or dread. Additional symptoms may include restlessness, fatigue, trouble concentrating, sleep disturbances, irritability, headaches, muscle aches, stomachaches, or other pain without an obvious cause.
Panic attacks can involve symptoms such as a rapid heartbeat, sweating, trembling, chest pain, or a sensation of being out of control.
Phobias are extreme fears that exceed the actual risk presented by the object or situation. Examples include fears of flying, heights, or being in confined spaces.
Causes and risk factors
Both genetic and environmental factors play a role in the likelihood of developing an anxiety disorder. Experiencing negative life events, having a family history of anxiety, or facing other mental health challenges within the family increases the chances of struggling with anxiety management.
Certain medical conditions, such as thyroid disorders and heart arrhythmias, are linked to a higher risk of developing anxiety disorders. Additionally, excessive caffeine consumption or substance abuse can increase the likelihood of experiencing anxiety.
Treatment for anxiety
Anxiety disorders often respond positively to psychotherapy, also known as “talk therapy.” For therapy to be effective, it should be tailored to your specific needs and experiences. With the appropriate therapist and therapeutic approach, you can regain balance in your life. You can experience fewer worries, feel calmer and more content, and become more present, leading to a fuller and more meaningful life.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) helps individuals learn new ways of thinking, responding, and reacting to situations to decrease anxiety and fear. CBT has been widely studied and researched.
Exposure therapy used to treat anxiety disorders. It involves addressing the fears that contribute to the anxiety, helping individuals engage in activities they have been avoiding. This method is sometimes paired with relaxation exercises.
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy uses mindfulness, goal-setting, and various strategies to reduce discomfort and anxiety.
Medication can assist in supporting positive lifestyle changes. It may help stabilize your mood, enhance your ability to function at home and work, and encourage self-care. Often used alongside psychotherapy and holistic care, medication can bolster your commitment to healthy habits like sleep, nutrition, and exercise routines.
More information
Anxiety Disorder. National Institute of Mental Health. https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/statistics/any-anxiety-disorder
Henning, M., Subic-Wrana, C., Wiltink, J., & Beutel, M. (2020). Anxiety Disorders in Patients With Somatic Diseases. Psychosomatic Medicine.
Nelson, H., Cantor, A., Pappas, M., & Weeks, C. (2020). Screening for Anxiety in Adolescent and Adult Women. Annals of Internal Medicine.
What’s the difference between stress and anxiety? American Psychological Association. https://www.apa.org/topics/stress/anxiety-difference