Anxiety Disorders: Symptoms, Causes, and Therapy

Symptoms of Anxiety Disorders

• Excessive and persistent worry about everyday things
• Restlessness, feeling on edge, or irritability
• Fatigue, concentration problems, or insomnia
• Rapid heartbeat, sweating, or trembling
• Nausea, abdominal discomfort, or headaches
• Avoidance behaviors, such as avoiding social situations or places

Causes of Anxiety Disorders

• Genetics: inherited traits or genetic predisposition
• Brain chemistry: imbalance of neurotransmitters like serotonin and GABA
• Environmental factors: trauma, stress, or significant life changes
• Medical conditions: thyroid disorders, heart conditions, or chronic pain
• Personality traits: perfectionism, low self-esteem, or anxiety sensitivity
• Learning and modeling: learned behaviors from family members or caregivers

Therapy Types for Anxiety Disorders

• Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT): identifies and challenges negative thought patterns, teaches coping skills
• Exposure Therapy: gradual exposure to feared situations or objects to reduce anxiety
• Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT): combines CBT with mindfulness techniques to manage emotions
• Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT): focuses on acceptance, values, and action in the presence of anxiety
• Medications: selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), benzodiazepines, or beta blockers

Co-occurring Disorders with Anxiety Disorders

• Depressive Disorders: major depressive disorder, dysthymia, or bipolar disorder
• Substance Use Disorders: alcohol, drugs, or prescription medication abuse
• Sleep Disorders: insomnia, sleep apnea, or restless leg syndrome
• Eating Disorders: anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, or binge eating disorder
• Other Mental Health Disorders: obsessive-compulsive disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, or attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)