Is it Anxiety?

by Daniel

Sleepless nights. Shortness of breath. Uncontrollable feelings of worry, tension, or panic. 

Anxiety manifests in countless ways, ranging from occasional worry to chronic and debilitating anxiety disorders. Today, anxiety has emerged as a pervasive mental health concern affecting millions globally. 

While the occasional anxiety that many of us experience on a day-to-day basis is normal, prolonged periods of intense, excessive, and persistent anxiety about everyday situations may be caused by an anxiety disorder. Often, anxiety disorders involve repeated episodes of sudden feelings of intense anxiety and fear or terror (panic attacks) that reach a peak within minutes. 

Feelings of anxiety and panic interfere with daily activities, are difficult to control, are out of proportion to the actual danger and can last a long time. Most people see their anxiety start by their teenage years and continue to experience these symptoms into adulthood. 

What is anxiety? 

Anxiety is a natural response to stress—an evolutionary mechanism that alerts us to potential dangers and helps us adapt to challenging situations. This served us well when we were nomadic and at greater risk of being chased by a bear or falling down a cliff. But today, when anxiety transcends the bounds of normalcy and becomes chronic or overwhelming, it may manifest as an anxiety disorder. These disorders, such as Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD), social anxiety disorder, panic disorder, and specific phobias, can significantly impact your daily life. Sometimes, anxiety is caused by medications. 

Examples of anxiety disorders you may face include:
  • Agoraphobia

    This anxiety disorder involves a persistent fear of places or situations that might trigger panic, leading individuals to actively avoid such circumstances. The fear often revolves around feelings of entrapment, helplessness, or embarrassment. 

  • Anxiety Disorder Due to a Medical Condition

    Intense anxiety or panic symptoms are directly linked to a physical health issue in this category. The emotional distress arises as a direct consequence of an underlying medical problem. 

  • Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD)

    GAD manifests as persistent and disproportionate anxiety and worry concerning routine activities or events. The excessive nature of the worry, its difficulty to control, and its impact on physical well-being characterize this disorder. Often, it coexists with other anxiety disorders or depression. 

  • Panic Disorder

    Characterized by recurring episodes of sudden and intense anxiety or terror, panic disorder leads to peak experiences known as panic attacks. Symptoms may include feelings of impending doom, shortness of breath, chest pain, or a rapid, fluttering heart. Fear of recurrence or avoidance of triggering situations may follow these attacks. 

  • Selective Mutism

    Primarily observed in children, selective mutism is the consistent inability to speak in specific settings, such as school, despite the ability to communicate in other environments like home. This condition can significantly impact academic, professional, and social functioning.

  • Separation Anxiety Disorder

    Typically identified in childhood, separation anxiety disorder involves excessive anxiety related to separation from parents or primary caregivers. The intensity of this anxiety surpasses what is developmentally expected for the child’s age. 

  • Social Anxiety Disorder (Social Phobia)

    Individuals with social anxiety disorder experience high levels of anxiety, fear, and avoidance in social situations due to concerns about judgment, embarrassment, or negative perceptions by others. 

  • Specific Phobias

    Marked by intense anxiety triggered by exposure to specific objects or situations, specific phobias lead to a strong desire to avoid these stimuli. In some cases, exposure provokes panic attacks.

  • Substance-Induced Anxiety Disorder

    This disorder is characterized by anxiety or panic symptoms resulting directly from substance misuse, medication side effects, exposure to toxic substances, or withdrawal from drugs. 

  • Other Specified Anxiety Disorder and Unspecified Anxiety Disorder

    These terms encompass anxiety or phobias that don’t precisely fit the criteria for other specific anxiety disorders. However, their impact is substantial enough to cause distress and disruption in daily life. 

Understanding the different types of anxiety and the nuances of each disorder is crucial for accurate diagnosis and effective treatment. Seeking professional guidance can provide you with tailored strategies to manage and overcome the challenges associated with anxiety. 

When to Consult a Healthcare Professional 

Anxiety can be treated. Schedule an appointment with your doctor if: 

  • Excessive worrying is affecting your work, relationships, or other aspects of your life. 
  • Your fear, worry, or anxiety feels overwhelming and difficult to manage. 
  • Depression, challenges with alcohol or drug use, or other mental health issues accompany your anxiety. 
  • You suspect a potential link between your anxiety and a physical health problem. 
  • If you are experiencing suicidal thoughts or behaviors, seek emergency treatment immediately. 

Ignoring persistent worries may exacerbate your anxiety over time. Seeking help from your doctor or a mental health provider before your anxiety escalates is crucial. Early intervention tends to be more effective, making it easier to address and manage the challenges associated with anxiety. Don’t hesitate to reach out for assistance in order to promote your overall well-being. 

What Causes Anxiety 

Anxiety is a complex and multifaceted mental health condition with various contributing factors. life experiences, particularly traumatic events, seem to play a key role in triggering anxiety disorders, particularly in individuals predisposed to anxiety. Most commonly, the causes of anxiety are a combination of biological, environmental, genetic, and psychological factors. Here are some key contributors to the development of anxiety: 

  • Genetics: A family history of anxiety disorders can increase the likelihood of an individual developing anxiety. There may be a genetic predisposition that influences how the brain responds to stress and fear. 
  • Brain Chemistry: Neurotransmitters, which are chemical messengers in the brain, play a crucial role in regulating mood and anxiety. Imbalances in neurotransmitters, such as serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine, can contribute to the development of anxiety disorders. 
  • Trauma and Stressful Life Events: Experiencing trauma or significant life stressors, such as abuse, loss of a loved one, or a major life change, can trigger anxiety. These events may contribute to an increased sensitivity to stress and a heightened fear response. 
  • Personality Factors: Certain personality traits, such as perfectionism, excessive worrying, or a tendency to be overly self-critical, may make individuals more susceptible to anxiety disorders. 
  • Medical Conditions: Chronic medical conditions or serious illnesses can be associated with increased anxiety. Additionally, certain medications or substance abuse can contribute to anxiety symptoms. 
  • Environmental Factors: Growing up in a stressful or chaotic environment, exposure to violence, or a lack of emotional support can contribute to the development of anxiety disorders. 
  • Cognitive Factors: Negative thought patterns and irrational beliefs can play a role in the perpetuation of anxiety. Cognitive distortions, such as catastrophizing or overgeneralization, may contribute to heightened anxiety levels. 
  • Neurological Factors: Structural or functional abnormalities in the brain may be linked to the development of anxiety disorders. Conditions affecting the amygdala, hippocampus, and other brain regions involved in emotional regulation can contribute to anxiety. 

Additionally, anxiety may be connected to an underlying health condition, including in some instances, where signs and symptoms of anxiety may serve as initial indicators of an ongoing medical issue. Anxiety is commonly seen with these medical conditions: 

  • Heart Disease 
  • Diabetes 
  • Thyroid Problems (e.g., hyperthyroidism) 
  • Respiratory Disorders (e.g., chronic obstructive pulmonary disease – COPD, asthma) 
  • Drug Misuse or Withdrawal 
  • Withdrawal from Substances like Alcohol or Benzodiazepines 
  • Chronic Pain or Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) 
  • Rare Tumors Producing Fight-or-Flight Hormones 

It’s important to note that individuals may experience anxiety in many different ways and for many different reasons or a combination of factors. Furthermore, what triggers anxiety in one person may not have the same effect on another. Given the interplay of these factors is complex, seeking professional help allows for a comprehensive assessment of individual circumstances and the development of effective treatment plans that are tailored to address the specific causes and symptoms of your anxiety. 

For certain individuals, anxiety may be connected to an underlying health condition, especially when: 

  • There is no family history of anxiety disorders among blood relatives. 
  • Anxiety disorders were not present during childhood. 
  • Avoidance of specific things or situations due to anxiety is not a prominent feature. 
  • Anxiety suddenly emerges without an apparent connection to life events, especially if there is no history of anxiety. 

Additionally, it is worth noting that in some instances, signs and symptoms of anxiety may serve as initial indicators of an ongoing medical issue, while in others anxiety may be a side effect of specific medications. 

Recognizing the potential medical roots of anxiety is crucial for a comprehensive understanding of the condition and informs the approach to effective intervention and management. If you experience symptoms of anxiety, especially when the criteria apply, consulting with a healthcare professional is essential to explore potential medical causes and determine an appropriate course of action. 

Risk Factors for Anxiety Disorders 

Various factors can elevate the risk of developing an anxiety disorder: 

  • Trauma: Both adults and children are at risk of developing an anxiety disorder following a traumatic event. Children who have experienced abuse, trauma, or witnessed traumatic events face an increased risk of developing an anxiety disorder later in life. Similarly, adults who undergo traumatic experiences may also develop anxiety disorders. 
  • Illness-Related Stress: Dealing with a health condition or a serious illness can lead to significant worry, particularly concerning treatment and the future. 
  • Accumulated Stress: A major life event or a succession of smaller stressful situations can trigger heightened anxiety. Examples include the death of a family member, workplace stress, or persistent concerns about financial matters. 
  • Personality: Certain personality types are more predisposed to anxiety disorders than others, though individual traits play a role in determining susceptibility to anxiety. 
  • Coexisting Mental Health Disorders: People with other mental health conditions, such as depression, frequently experience concurrent anxiety disorders. The interconnection of various mental health issues can contribute to heightened anxiety levels. 
  • Family History: Anxiety disorders exhibit a familial tendency, meaning they can run in families. Having blood relatives with an anxiety disorder increases an individual’s susceptibility. 
  • Substance Use: The use, misuse, or withdrawal from drugs or alcohol can either cause or exacerbate anxiety. Substance-related factors play a role in the development or intensification of anxiety symptoms. 

Understanding these risk factors is vital for recognizing potential vulnerabilities and implementing preventive measures. Identifying and addressing these factors can contribute to early intervention and effective management of anxiety disorders. If you recognize these risk factors in yourself or someone you know, seeking professional guidance can be instrumental in mitigating the impact of anxiety and promoting overall mental well-being. 

Complications of Anxiety Disorders 

Anxiety disorders extend beyond the realm of worry, often giving rise to or exacerbating various mental and physical conditions. These complications may include: 

  • Depression and Other Mental Health Disorders: Anxiety disorders frequently coexist with depression and other mental health conditions, amplifying the overall impact on mental well-being. 
  • Substance Misuse: Individuals with anxiety disorders may be at an increased risk of turning to substance misuse as a coping mechanism, further complicating their mental health. 
  • Trouble Sleeping (Insomnia): Anxiety can contribute to sleep disturbances, leading to insomnia and further impacting overall health. 
  • Digestive or Bowel Problems: The physiological effects of anxiety may manifest in digestive or bowel issues, creating additional challenges for individuals with anxiety disorders. 
  • Headaches and Chronic Pain: Anxiety disorders can contribute to physical symptoms such as headaches and chronic pain, affecting both mental and physical well-being. 
  • Social Isolation: Persistent anxiety may lead to social withdrawal and isolation, limiting social interactions and exacerbating feelings of loneliness. 
  • Functional Impairment at School or Work: Anxiety disorders can interfere with one’s ability to function effectively at school or work, impacting academic or professional performance. 
  • Poor Quality of Life: The cumulative effects of anxiety and its associated complications can significantly diminish overall quality of life, affecting various aspects of daily living. 
  • Suicidal Thoughts and Behaviors: In severe cases, untreated or undertreated anxiety disorders may contribute to the development of suicidal thoughts or behaviors, underscoring the critical importance of timely intervention. 

Recognizing and addressing these complications is crucial for comprehensive anxiety management. Seeking professional help can provide tailored strategies to navigate these challenges, improve overall well-being, and mitigate the potential long-term effects of anxiety disorders. If you or someone you know is struggling with anxiety and its complications, reaching out to mental health professionals is essential for effective support and intervention. 

Prevention of Anxiety Disorders 

While it’s impossible to predict the exact causes of anxiety disorders, there are proactive steps individuals can take to reduce the impact of symptoms if they are experiencing anxiety: 

  • Early Intervention: Seek help – as soon as you can. Like many mental health conditions, anxiety is often more challenging to treat if intervention is delayed. Don’t hesitate to reach out to professionals when you notice symptoms. 
  • Stay Active: Engage in activities that bring you joy and contribute to a positive sense of self. Participate in activities you enjoy, maintain social interactions, and foster caring relationships. These elements can alleviate worries and contribute to overall well-being. 
  • Social Interaction: Enjoy social interactions and cultivate meaningful relationships. Having a supportive social network can play a significant role in lessening anxiety and providing emotional support during challenging times. 
  • Avoid Alcohol or Drug Use: Steer clear of alcohol or drug use, as these substances can either cause or exacerbate anxiety symptoms. If you find yourself struggling with addiction, seeking assistance from a healthcare professional or joining a support group can be instrumental in overcoming these challenges. 
  • Self-Care Practices: Incorporate self-care practices into your routine. This may include activities such as mindfulness, meditation, or relaxation techniques, which can contribute to stress reduction and anxiety management. 

Taking proactive measures and being mindful of one’s mental well-being can contribute to a healthier and more resilient mindset. If you are experiencing anxiety or notice symptoms in yourself or someone else, reaching out for professional assistance early on is a key step in preventing the exacerbation of anxiety disorders. A proactive approach to mental health can lead to effective strategies for managing anxiety and improving overall quality of life. 

When to Get Emergency Help 

If you think you may hurt yourself, someone else, or attempt suicide, call 911 in the U.S. or your local emergency number immediately. 

Also consider these options if you’re having suicidal thoughts: 

  • Visit the nearest emergency room or urgent care facility. 
  • Contact a suicide hotline. In the U.S., call or text 988 to reach the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Services are free and confidential. 
  • U.S. veterans or service members who are in crisis can call 988 and then press “1” for the Veterans Crisis Line, text 838255, or chat online. 
  • The Suicide & Crisis Lifeline in the U.S. has a Spanish language phone line at 1-888-628-9454 (toll-free). 
  • Reach out to a close friend or loved one. 
  • Contact a minister, spiritual leader or someone else in your faith community. 

If you have a loved one who is in danger of suicide or has made a suicide attempt, make sure someone stays with that person. Call 911 or your local emergency number immediately. Or, if you think you can do so safely, take the person to the nearest hospital emergency room. 

If you or a loved one is struggling with depression, we invite you to explore our services and discover the compassionate care and innovative treatments available at Aster Mental Health. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step towards a brighter, more fulfilling future.