What Are Anxiety Disorders?
People with anxiety disorders experience anxieties and fears that are not related to a specific circumstance or, in the case of generalized anxiety disorder, they worry about a wide range of situations. They also have trouble controlling these symptoms.
The symptoms of anxiety disorders begin in the early years of childhood. The reason for this is not known however, genetics and life events may be a factor.
Signs and symptoms
An anxiety disorder can be diagnosed if you experience anxiety or worry that is difficult to manage. It may interfere with your daily routine. Anxiety disorders can include generalized anxiety (GAD), panic, obsessive-compulsive disorder and phobias.
GAD is characterized by a sense of overwhelming and uncontrollable anxiety. They may have trouble concentrating and are often worried about health, money or work. The signs of panic disorder are brief, intense episodes of anxiety or discomfort that happen without warning and cause symptoms like chest pain and heart palpitations, trouble breathing, or dizziness. People with phobias develop an extreme fear of certain objects, situations, or places like spiders or heights, public speaking or enclosed spaces. People with OCD suffer from repetitive, compulsional actions as a method of coping with their anxieties and reducing the feelings of anxiety or tension. Those with post-traumatic stress disorder have trouble getting rid of painful and frightening memories, which result in nightmares and flashbacks.
The causes of anxiety disorders are not fully known, but they could are caused by a combination of factors. Certain studies suggest that both genetics and the surroundings of the individual are crucial. For instance, generalized anxiety disorder is more likely to be passed down through families, and traumatic or stressful experiences in childhood increase the risk for developing an anxiety disorder . People with chronic medical illnesses and those who use alcohol or other drugs are more likely to suffer from an anxiety disorder.
The good news is that the majority of anxiety disorders respond well to treatment. Therapy and medication can reduce the symptoms of anxiety disorders. Cognitive behavioral therapy is a type of psychotherapy that teaches people how to think and behave in a manner that helps them feel less anxious. The use of medications, like beta-blockers and medications for anxiety that are used to treat high blood pressure, may relieve physical symptoms like shaking or rapid heartbeat. A doctor will determine the best medication and dosage for each patient. Being proactive in seeking help can help with anxiety disorders. manage.
Diagnosis
A majority of people have anxiety at certain points, for instance before giving a presentation or taking tests. If these feelings persist and uncontrollable, they disrupt your daily life it could be an indication that you suffer from an anxiety disorder.
A mental health professional will determine whether you suffer from anxiety disorders by using the criteria in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders. They will ask about your symptoms, when they began and how long they've been going on, if they are getting worse, and how they affect your daily life. They will also check for other conditions that could cause similar symptoms, such as depression or a thyroid condition.
Different anxiety disorders can manifest with different symptoms. Your doctor will determine the type of anxiety disorder causing your problems and formulate an action plan to treat it. This could involve psychotherapy, medication or both.
Some people are at greater risk of developing an disorder than others. Certain individuals are more at chance of developing an anxiety disorder than others. This includes those with a family history, children who have experienced or witnessed traumatizing events and those suffering from certain medical conditions like Rheumatoid Arthritis, systemic Lupus, or sleep apnea. It is also more frequent for anxiety to manifest with other physical or mental diseases like heart disease or depression.
People with an anxiety disorder are often unable to admitting that they have a problem, and seeking treatment. This is often due to stigmatization or a lack of understanding that anxiety disorders are an incurable illness or a lack of access.
Anxiety disorders can be difficult to treat, but with right support most people will get better. Discuss with your doctor what helps you deal with anxiety and stick to your treatment program. Follow the prescribed medication and be sure to take part in all therapy sessions. Also, stay away from nicotine and alcohol because they can cause your anxiety symptoms to worsen. Talk to your family and friends, and form a group with others who have the same condition. This can help you cope and share tips with others. Include your family members in your treatment and try to end the cycle of anxiety by spending more time on activities you enjoy, such as hobbies or sports.
Treatment
Certain types of anxiety disorders can be treated with psychotherapy, medication and complementary health practices. The medications used to treat anxiety include antidepressants and benzodiazepines. Certain people may need to test a variety of medications before finding the one that is effective for them. Caffeine, some of the over-the-counter medicines and prescriptions, illegal substances and herbal supplements can aggravate anxiety symptoms and interact with prescription medications. It is important to discuss any changes to their drug use with a physician.
Treatment for anxiety disorders typically involves an amalgamation of therapy and medications. Therapy can help you to cope with your symptoms and work towards changing your negative thoughts and beliefs that cause anxiety. It can also aid in relaxation techniques and methods to reduce stress, such as deep muscular relaxation meditation, breathing, and deep relaxation exercises.
Therapy for anxiety includes cognitive behavioral therapy that helps you learn new ways of thinking and acting to lessen anxiety. It may also include exposure therapy, which is the process of gradually confronting the things that trigger anxiety. It can also include complementary approaches to health such as acupuncture or mindfulness.
If you suffer from severe anxiety, a doctor can prescribe a short-term course of benzodiazepines which work quickly to reduce your symptoms. If you are experiencing suicidal thoughts it is best to visit the emergency room.
The medications can relieve symptoms but they don't treat anxiety disorders. They do not eliminate the underlying cause and must be taken regularly. Some of the most effective treatments for anxiety disorders mix pharmacotherapy with psychotherapy such as cognitive behavior therapy or exposure therapy.
You can reduce the symptoms of anxiety by regularly exercise, avoiding unhealthy food and drinking alcohol in moderation. Smoking and getting enough rest can aid in reducing anxiety. Maintaining social connections is essential to avoid isolation and anxiety symptoms. You can locate a therapy provider in your area by searching ADAA's Find-a-Therapist database. You can also visit BetterHelp, an online therapy service which matches you with a licensed therapist starting at as low as $49 per session.
Prevention
Humans are conditioned to experience anxiety and fear when certain situations occur. This is the body's way of preparing us to fight or flee from a threat. If these symptoms persist and begin to interfere with everyday life they are referred to as anxiety disorders. Anxiety symptoms can be caused by a myriad of causes, including stress, genetics, environmental, trauma, or even the use of drugs.
The positive side is that many people who have an anxiety disorder can overcome it with assistance of treatment. The first step is to discuss your symptoms with your primary healthcare professional. Your doctor will evaluate your situation and, if necessary recommend you to a mental health professional.
Some of the most effective treatments for anxiety disorders is psychotherapy and medications. Talk therapy can help you understand how to manage your emotions and change negative thoughts that cause anxiety. The use of medications can help reduce your symptoms and focus more on healthy habits. Antidepressants are among the medications used to combat anxiety. Beta blockers and benzodiazepines are also examples.
Relaxation techniques like meditation and deep breathing can help to reduce anxiety. Avoiding substances like caffeine that can affect your mood can be beneficial. Regular exercise can help reduce stress. Try to make more friends or discover a new pastime when you're struggling to cope with anxiety.
It's important that you know that anxiety disorders typically start in early adolescence or the beginning of childhood and run in families. Some people who have been through a difficult period in their lives, such as childhood abuse or a loss that was severe, could be more at risk of developing an anxiety disorder.
The USPSTF recommends that all adults as well as postpartum and pregnant women, be screened for anxiety disorders. People who are at a higher risk of having an anxiety disorder should be assessed on a case-by-case basis taking into account their individual risks and advantages. In the absence evidence regarding the optimal frequency of screening, clinicians are encouraged to use their judgment when evaluating a person's risk factors, comorbid conditions and life events to determine if additional screening is warranted.