Anxiety is a common mental health disorder characterized by constant feelings of apprehension, tension, or unease. It is considered a normal reaction to stressful situations, but becomes problematic when symptoms are excessive, last for long periods of time, or interfere with daily life. Key features of anxiety include:
- Excessive worrying about everyday issues such as health, money, relationships, or work
- Feeling tense or "on edge" most of the time
- Difficulty controlling feelings of worry despite understanding they may be exaggerated
- Restlessness or feeling keyed up
- Fatigue
- Difficulty concentrating
- Irritability
- Muscle tension
- Sleep difficulties
- Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD): Chronic, exaggerated worrying about everyday life
- Social Anxiety Disorder: Extreme fear of social situations
- Panic Disorder: Sudden attacks of panic or fear
- Phobias: Intense fear around certain objects or situations
- Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD): Anxiety stemming from a traumatic event
- Genetics/family history: Anxiety can run in families
- Brain chemistry: An imbalance of neurotransmitters like serotonin or dopamine
- Stress: Both acute and chronic stress influence anxiety risk
- Trauma: Disturbing events can lead to anxiety disorders like PTSD
- Therapy: Working with a therapist is first-line treatment for many anxiety disorders
- Medication: Anti-anxiety meds like SSRIs can be used alone or with therapy
- Relaxation techniques: Breathing exercises, meditation, yoga, etc.
- Lifestyle changes: Diet/exercise adjustments, cutting back on caffeine, etc.