Understanding Anxiety

Learn About Anxiety

Anxiety disorders are described by the American Psychiatric Association (APA) as disorders that possess the shared features of excessive fear and anxiety as well as related behavioral disturbances that result from the presence of that fear and anxiety. The APA clarifies that the different types of anxiety disorders differ from one another based on the types of situations or objects that cause individuals to experience the feelings of fear and anxiety and elicit avoidance behaviors. While all individuals will experience fear and anxiety at various points in their lives, some people experience these emotions with such intensity or with such prolonged duration that it begins to impair their ability to function appropriately on a daily basis. When this is the case, these individuals are likely suffering from an anxiety disorder.

There are several types of anxiety disorders. The most common are generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder, separation anxiety disorder, specific phobia, and social anxiety disorder. These disorders may occur by themselves or may co-occur alongside one another. While each type has its own classification of symptoms, they will all bring about disturbances in the lives of those who are afflicted by them. Though the symptoms of these disorders can be debilitating and their effects can be damaging, treatment options are available that can help individuals learn to manage their anxiety symptoms and resume living full, happy, and independent lives.

Statistics

Statistics for Anxiety

Anxiety disorders are among the most commonly occurring mental health conditions. In fact, studies have shown that an astounding two out of every five adults will struggle with symptoms of some type of anxiety disorder.

Causes & Risks

Causes & Risk Factors of Anxiety

The following are among the causes and risk factors that can impact an individual’s susceptibility to developing symptoms of an anxiety disorder:

Genetic: Extensive research on the topic has provided evidence of the fact that there is a strong genetic link to the onset of anxiety disorders. These disorders are known to run in families and individuals who have first-degree biological family members who struggle with symptoms of anxiety disorders are at a much greater risk for suffering from the same types of conditions than are those who do not share the same type of genetic background.

Environmental: If a genetic predisposition for anxiety disorders is present, the environment in which individuals are immersed can have an impact on whether or not they will develop symptoms of these conditions. For example, individuals whose home lives are full of chaos, stress, or much turmoil are at a higher risk for developing symptoms of various anxiety disorders as they struggle to cope with their surroundings. Additionally, individuals who have suffered through traumatic experiences or who have been the subject of abuse or neglect are believed by professionals in the field to be at a higher risk for developing symptoms synonymous with anxiety disorders.

Risk Factors:

Family history of mental illness
Personal history of suffering from another type of mental health condition
Personal or family history of substance abuse and addiction
Being the victim of abuse and/or neglect
Experiencing a traumatic event or a series of traumatic events
Exposure to crime and/or violence
Living in a highly stressful or chaotic environment

Signs and Symptoms

Signs & Symptoms of Anxiety

The signs and symptoms that are displayed by people who are battling anxiety disorders will vary depending upon a number of factors. The age of the person, the duration during which he or she has suffered from the condition, and the specific type of anxiety disorder itself will all impact the type and severity of symptoms displayed. Examples of possible signs that could be indicative that someone is battling an anxiety disorder include:

Behavioral symptoms:

Engaging in self-harming behaviors
Abusing drugs or alcohol
School refusal
Frequent work absences
Avoiding certain people, places, and/or situations
Participating in ritualistic, repetitive behaviors
Rapid speech
Restlessness

Physical symptoms:

Having immense difficulty sleeping
Pervasive headaches
Chronic stomachaches
Urinating frequently
Muscle tension
Changes in eating patterns

Cognitive symptoms:

Thinking processes that are repetitive in nature
Racing thoughts
Declined ability to focus
Hindered learning abilities
Paranoia
Concentration difficulties

Psychosocial symptoms:

Profound feelings of hopelessness and helplessness
Feelings of loneliness
Sudden changes in mood and demeanor
Experiencing irrational feelings of fear
Chronic feelings of nervousness
Frequently feeling as though one is under pressure
No longer demonstrating interest in things one was once interested in
Low self-esteem

Effects

Effects of Anxiety

When the symptoms of anxiety disorders remain unaddressed and untreated, individuals are susceptible to experiencing any number of negative effects. Examples of such effects may include:

Decline in academic performance / academic failure
Onset of problematic behaviors at school or at home
Decline in occupational performance / job loss
Decline in ability to adhere to responsibilities at home
Social withdrawal
Peer rejection
Decreased self-esteem or sense of self-worth
Engaging in substance abuse in an attempt to alleviate distress
Beginning to participate in self-harming behaviors

Co-Occurring Disorders

Anxiety and Co-Occurring Disorders

It is not entirely uncommon for individuals who suffer from symptoms of anxiety disorders to simultaneously battle symptoms of other mental health conditions as well. Examples of disorders that are cited as co-occurring alongside anxiety disorders include: