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Anxiety Disorders

Authors:
  • Amy Scholten, MPH
Publication Type:

Condition

Anxiety Disorders

(Chronic Free-Floating Anxiety)

Definition

Anxiety is a feeling of dread, tension, and unease. An anxiety disorder is when these feelings are intense or last for long periods of time. It may happen even if there is no specific cause. An anxiety disorder also causes problems in day to day life and relationships.

The most common types of anxiety disorders are:

Anxiety may also occur with other conditions such as alcohol use disorder, drug abuse, or depression.

Causes

The cause of anxiety is not clear. Trauma, stress, and genetics may all play a role. They may cause a change in how the brain reacts to stress. Other health issues and medicine may also play a role.

Risk Factors

Things that may raise the risk of an anxiety disorder are:

  • Family member with anxiety disorders
  • Stressful life events
  • Not having good habits to manage stress—or harmful habits to deal with stress
  • History of trauma emotional or physical
  • Long-term illness or treatment
  • Substance abuse
  • History of self-harm as a teenager

Symptoms

An anxiety disorder can cause:

  • Worry or dread
  • Unwanted thoughts
  • Sense of danger or catastrophe
  • Fear or panic
  • Restlessness
  • Irritability
  • Impatience
  • Uncertainty
  • Problems focusing

It can also cause physical problems such as:

  • Headache
  • Feeling tired
  • Chest pain
  • Fast heartbeats
  • Sweating (especially the palms)
  • Dry mouth
  • Flushing or blushing
  • Muscle tension
  • Shortness of breath
  • Feeling lightheaded or fainting
  • Problems sleeping
  • Shaking
  • Choking sensation
  • Abdominal discomfort
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Loose, frequent stools (poop)
  • Feeling of "butterflies" in the stomach
  • Sexual problems
  • Tingling sensations
  • Nail biting or other habitual behavior
Symptoms of Anxiety.

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Diagnosis

The doctor will ask about symptoms and past health. The doctor should also know about a person's medicines, drugs or supplements. A physical and exam will be done. The doctor will also ask questions about emotional health. It is important to be honest and open with the doctor. Many mental health disorders go untreated because people do not ask for help. An anxiety disorder may be suspected based on answers to these questions.

Other tests may be done if there could be another cause of anxiety. A referral may be made to a mental health professional. They can help to diagnose anxiety disorders or other mental health issues.

Treatment

Anxiety disorders can be managed. Treatment can help to lower the effect on day to day life. The goal is to reduce stress and improve the reaction to it. A treatment plan may include a mix of the following:

Prevention

The cause of anxiety disorders is not clear, so prevention is not known. To decrease the risk of an anxiety episode:

  • Be aware of situations, work, and people that cause you stress. Avoid them if you can.
  • Find a relaxation technique that works for you. Practice it often, not just when you have anxiety.
  • Grow and keep a strong social support system.
  • Express your emotions when they happen.
  • Challenge beliefs and thoughts that are not helpful to you.
  • Correct misperceptions. Ask others for their points of view.
  • Work with a therapist.
  • Avoid nicotine or other drugs. If you drink alcohol, drink only in moderation:
    • 1 drink or less per day for women
    • 2 drinks or less per day for men.
RESOURCES:

CANADIAN RESOURCES:

CANADIAN RESOURCES:

References

  • Antidepressant efficacy in generalized anxiety disorder. EBSCO DynaMed website. Available at: https://www.dynamed.com/management/antidepressant-efficacy-in-generalized-anxiety-disorder.
  • Anxiety disorders. National Institute of Mental Health website. Available at: https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/anxiety-disorders/index.shtml.
  • Generalized anxiety disorder. EBSCO DynaMed website. Available at: https://www.dynamed.com/condition/generalized-anxiety-disorder.
  • Lemay V, Hoolahan J, Buchanan A. Impact of a yoga and meditation intervention on students' stress and anxiety levels. Am J Pharm Educ. 2019;83(5):7001.
  • Saeed SA, Cunningham K, Bloch RM. Depression and anxiety disorders: benefits of exercise, yoga, and meditation. Am Fam Physician. 2019;99(10):620-627.

Contributors

  • Michelle Danforth, PMHNP
Last Updated:
2023-08-01

(C) Copyright 2023 EBSCO Information Services

This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.