What Causes Anxiety Disorders?
Individuals with anxiety disorders feel a sense of anxiety and worry that are not proportional to the actual threat. They may also exhibit physical symptoms, such as an increased heart rate, sweating, or breathlessness.
Psychotherapy and medication, also known as talk therapy are effective treatments for anxiety disorders. Each has its own advantages.
Genetics
Genetics is a major cause to anxiety disorders. People who have a history of anxiety in their family are at a higher-than-average risk of developing this condition. It is also believed that genes can trigger anxiety to flare up in certain situations and cause people to be more susceptible to develop symptoms of the condition. Scientists continue to identify the genes that cause anxiety. They hope to find a way to prevent people with certain genetics from developing anxiety disorders.
Anxiety is a family trait and people who have close relatives suffering from 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. One of the most important results of genetic research into anxiety was the discovery that chromosome duplication is associated with an increased likelihood of suffering from anxiety disorder and panic.
While researchers have a good understanding of the role that genetics play in anxiety, it's important to note that anxiety can be caused by environmental factors. This is the case for those with a family history as well as those who don't have. Certain studies have found that people who are suffering from chronic stress, trauma events, or other mental conditions are more prone to anxiety.
A large number of gene-based association studies (GWAS) have found significant heritability for both current and past anxiety disorders and their associated traits. The majority of the loci associated with anxiety have not yet been identified. Future GWAS require more in-depth and systematized phenotyping in order to discover the specific mechanisms linking genotype and 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 disorder-specific from pleiotropic loci that are associated with a range of anxiety phenotypes. It is also necessary to have a greater diversity of study samples in order to determine and replicate the majority of factors that affect anxiety. These are the biggest obstacles to the field 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 have a negative effect on their lives including work, family and social life. It is unclear what causes anxiety disorders however there are a variety of factors that may be involved. Genetic traits, brain chemistry, life experiences, and environmental stressors are all possible causes. Certain health conditions and medications can cause anxiety.
Anxiety is more likely to be present for those who have traits such as being nervous or shy. Genetics influence how brain chemicals that regulate the processes of fear and emotion and, if these chemicals aren't functioning correctly and are not functioning properly, it could lead to anxiety disorders. People with a close relative who suffers from anxiety disorders are at a higher risk.
Life events that are stressful or negative like the loss of a loved ones or being diagnosed with a serious illness can cause anxiety disorders. If these feelings do not diminish, you should seek medical attention.
Anxiety levels are increased by exposure to toxic substances such as chemical exposure and pollution. Certain medical conditions like thyroid disorders can increase the risk of anxiety disorder.
There are several ways to treat anxiety disorders. One of them is cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) is a type of therapy that teaches new ways to think and behave. CBT can help you understand how to deal with situations that can trigger anxiety and also overcome your anxieties. It can also help you to manage your worries and reduce the amount of time you are spending on them. CBT can be combined with other therapies, such as mindfulness meditation or group support groups.
It is essential to choose a treatment that works for you. It is often best to combine treatments such as medication, psychotherapy and self-help. If you are a member of a family with a history of anxiety, make sure you share this information with your physician. This will help them identify anxiety-related symptoms and treat them quickly. It is also essential to avoid activities that may cause anxiety like avoiding places where you have experienced negative experiences in the past.
Mental health conditions
Everyone is prone to anxiety from time time. It's the brain's response to stress, and a warning of danger. But when anxiety becomes chronic and overwhelming, it becomes a problem with the daily routine. This is when it's time to see a doctor for an assessment and treatment.
People who have https://www.iampsychiatry.com/anxiety-disorders often suffer from other mental health disorders as well. For example, those with depression or bipolar disorder may suffer from anxiety symptoms. People who have particular physical health issues, such as diabetes or heart disease, are also at chance of developing anxiety. People who have experienced abuse or trauma have higher chances of developing anxiety, which is known as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
There are many different types of medications that can reduce anxiety symptoms. It is important to discuss your options with your doctor. Different types of anxiety are best treated with different medications.
The SSRIs and the SNRIs are widely used to treat anxiety. They include citalopram (Lexapro) as well as fluoxetine (Prozac) and duloxetine (Cymbalta). Antidepressants from different classes, tricyclic antidepressants, also help with anxiety. These include imipramine as well as clomipramine.
Some over-the-counter medications herbal supplements, prescription medications and illicit drugs can cause anxiety-related symptoms to become worse. Patients suffering from anxiety should also stay away from nicotine, caffeine as well as alcohol.
Talk therapy - also known as psychotherapy -- can help those suffering from anxiety. It is typically conducted in small groups and focuses on coping with your anxieties. It can also help you change your habits that trigger anxiety, for example, avoidance of stressful situations. You can also try other treatments, like yoga and mindfulness meditation. These methods work for a large number of people suffering from anxiety. If your anxiety doesn't ease, you should see an expert psychologist or psychiatrist for more help.
Substance abuse
Although everyone is likely to feel anxious at some point, a genuine anxiety disorder is a constant feeling of fear and tension that can disrupt your daily routine. Anxiety can be caused by an event or circumstance like a job interview or public speaking. For some anxiety can become chronic and even destructive. Individuals who suffer from co-occurring substance abuse and anxiety disorder should seek out professional help. A dual diagnosis treatment center can provide the help and care required for recovery.
Substance abuse can mask symptoms of anxiety and make it difficult to determine. Certain drugs and alcohol can trigger symptoms similar to anxiety, such as nervousness, restlessness, agitation and anger. These symptoms also become more severe when you are in withdrawal. It isn't always easy to determine whether an individual'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 activity in certain brain areas that are linked to depression and anxiety. As time passes, a user may develop a permanent state of anxiety. This is aggravated by stopping drugs or experiencing withdrawal.
According to the Anxiety Depression Association of America, research has shown that around 20 percent of people diagnosed with anxiety disorders also suffer from a substance abuse disorder. This is due to financial challenges, health problems relationships, and other stressors are often found with substance abuse. The severity of the anxiety disorder and addiction can impede the treatment process, but it's crucial to address both issues simultaneously.
It is possible to overcome both addiction and anxiety simultaneously. The key is to find a dual diagnosis treatment center that can provide the best combination of therapy for the individual. Click on a pin below to find out more about a center near you that offers the dual diagnosis. The sooner you seek help, the greater chance that your anxiety and addiction can be successfully treated.