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What Are Anxiety Disorders?

People suffering from anxiety disorders have fears and worries out of proportion to the circumstances. In generalized anxiety disorder they worry about a variety of circumstances. They also have difficulty controlling these symptoms.

The symptoms of anxiety disorders typically begin in childhood. The cause is unknown however, genetics and life events could be a factor.

Symptoms

Although everyone experiences anxiety from time to time constant anxiety and worry that is difficult to manage and causes disruption to daily life may be an indication of an anxiety disorder. Anxiety disorders include generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), anxiety disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, specific phobias and post-traumatic stress disorder.

People suffering from GAD experience uncontrollable and overwhelming feelings of anxiety most of the time. They may have trouble concentrating and may be constantly concerned about health, money or work. Panic disorder is characterised by intense, brief episodes of anxiety and discomfort that can happen without warning. Symptoms include chest pain or palpitations, breathing issues or dizziness. People with phobias experience a fear of certain things, situations or locations such as spiders and public speaking, heights or enclosed spaces. OCD is characterised by repetitive, obsessive behaviors that are employed to manage anxiety and decrease the feelings of tension. People with post-traumatic stress disorder have difficulty getting rid of painful terrifying memories that result in nightmares and flashbacks.

The causes of anxiety disorders aren't yet fully understood, but they likely have a number of causes. Certain studies suggest that both genetics and the surroundings of the individual are crucial. Generalized anxiety disorder, for example is a condition that can be passed down through families. Stressful or traumatizing childhood experiences can increase the chance of developing an anxiety disorder. People suffering from chronic medical conditions and those who use alcohol or other drugs are more likely to have an anxiety disorder.

The good news is that most anxiety disorders respond well to treatment. Therapy and medication can reduce the symptoms of anxiety disorders. Psychotherapy, like cognitive behavioral therapy, helps people learn new ways of thinking and reacting that can help them feel less anxious. The use of medications, like beta-blockers and anti-anxiety medications, which are used to treat high blood pressure, can alleviate physical symptoms such as a rapid heartbeat or shaking. A healthcare provider can determine the right medications and dosages for each patient. Early treatment can make the treatment of anxiety disorders less difficult.

Diagnosis

Most people feel anxious at certain points, for instance when preparing a presentation or taking a test. When those feelings are persistent and excessive, irrational and disrupt your daily life it could be an indication that you suffer from an anxiety disorder.

A mental health professional can identify an anxiety disorder by using the criteria in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM). They will ask about your symptoms, the time they began, how long they have been going on, if they are getting worse, and how they affect your daily life. They will also check for other conditions that may cause similar symptoms, for example depression or a thyroid condition.

Different anxiety disorders have various symptoms. Your specialist will determine the type of anxiety disorder causing your problems and formulate an action plan to treat it. This could include medication, psychotherapy, or both.

Some people are more susceptible to developing anxiety disorders than others. This includes those with an ancestral history of anxiety or other mental health issues, children who experience or witness traumatic events, and those suffering from certain medical conditions, such as systemic lupus erythematosus, rheumatoid arthritis or sleep apnea. Anxiety is more likely be associated with other physical or mental illnesses, such as depression or cardiovascular disease.

People with an anxiety disorder are often unable to admitting that they have a problem and seek treatment. This is often due to social stigma and a lack of understanding that anxiety disorders are a treatable illness, or limited access to treatment.

Anxiety disorders can be challenging to treat, but with proper support, the majority of people will improve. Talk with your therapist or doctor about what helps you cope, and stick with your treatment plan. Be sure you take your medication as prescribed and attend therapy sessions. Avoid alcohol and nicotine as they can exacerbate anxiety symptoms. Be honest with your family and friends about your illness and build a network of people who share similar conditions. This will help you manage and share tips with others. Include your loved ones in your treatment, and attempt to stop the cycle of worry by focusing more on activities you enjoy like sports or hobbies.

Treatment

Certain types of anxiety conditions can be treated with psychotherapy, medication, and other complementary health methods. The treatments for anxiety include antidepressants and benzodiazepines. Some people may need to try a variety of different medications before finding one that is effective for them. Caffeine, some over-the-counter and prescription drugs, illegal substances and herbal supplements could increase anxiety symptoms or interact with prescribed medicines. Patients should always discuss any changes in their use of drugs with a physician.

A combination of medication and therapy is often the best option to treat anxiety disorders. Therapy can help you manage your symptoms and work on changing your negative thoughts and beliefs that cause anxiety. It can also aid in relaxation techniques and methods to reduce stress, such as deep muscle relaxation meditation, breathing, and deep relaxation exercises.

Cognitive behavioral therapy is among the most effective treatments for anxiety. It helps you learn to think and behave in a way that reduces anxiety. Exposure therapy is another option that lets you slowly confront the factors that trigger anxiety. It may also include other approaches to health that are complementary, such as acupuncture and mindfulness.

If you are suffering from severe anxiety, your doctor can prescribe a short course of benzodiazepines that are fast-acting to help ease your anxiety. If you have suicidal feelings you must visit the emergency room.

The medications can relieve symptoms however they cannot solve anxiety disorders. They do not remove the underlying reason for your symptoms, so they should be taken on a regular basis. Some of the most effective treatments for anxiety disorders include pharmacotherapy with psychotherapy like cognitive behavioral therapy or exposure therapy.

You can lessen the symptoms of anxiety by regularly exercising and eating healthy meals, as well as drinking alcohol in moderation. Smoking cigarettes and getting enough sleep can aid in reducing anxiety. Social connections are essential to avoid loneliness and anxiety-related symptoms. You can find a Therapist in your area by searching the ADAA's Find-a-Therapist database. You can also visit BetterHelp, an online therapy platform which matches you with a licensed therapist starting at as low as $49 for a session.





Prevention

Humans are conditioned to experience anxiety and fear whenever certain situations arise. Our bodies train us to defend ourselves or escape any threat. When these feelings persist and start to interfere with daily life, they are considered anxiety disorders. Anxiety symptoms can be triggered by a variety of factors such as stress, genetics, stress trauma, and even substance use.

Treatment is available for a lot of sufferers of anxiety disorders. The first step is to talk with your primary care provider about your symptoms. Your doctor will review your situation and refer you to a mental health professional when needed.

The most effective treatments for anxiety disorders is psychotherapy and medications. Talk therapy can teach you how to manage your emotions and change negative thoughts patterns that fuel anxiety. The use of medications can help reduce your symptoms and help you focus on healthy behaviors. Antidepressants are among the medications used to treat anxiety. Beta blockers and benzodiazepines are other examples.

panic anxiety disorder as meditation and deep breathing can help reduce anxiety. Avoiding substances that affect your mood, for example caffeine, can be beneficial. Regular exercise can help reduce stress. If you are having trouble managing your anxiety Try to meet with friends more often or pick up an activity that keeps your mind off of your anxieties.

It is important to remember that anxiety disorders typically start in the adolescent years or early childhood and tend to be a part of families. People who have experienced an emotional or stressful time in their lives, such as abuse as a child, or tragic loss, are more at risk likelihood of developing anxiety disorders.

The USPSTF recommends that adults, including pregnant and postpartum women, be checked for anxiety disorders. Those at higher risk of developing an anxiety disorder should be evaluated on a case-by -case basis, taking into consideration their individual risks and benefits. In the absence of evidence-based guidelines regarding screening frequency, doctors should use their judgment as a clinician when assessing the risk factors, comorbidities, and life events of the patient to determine if further screening is needed.