Overview
Anxiety is a mental health condition in which everyday worries go beyond normal limits and interfere with daily life, relationships, and work. It is one of the most common mental disorders, with a lifetime prevalence of 25-30%.
People with an anxiety disorder experience persistent, excessive worry even when there is no real threat. This anxiety also leads to physical symptoms such as palpitations, sweating, and shortness of breath.
Common types of anxiety:
- Generalized anxiety disorder
- Panic disorder
- Social anxiety disorder
- Specific phobias
- Separation anxiety
- Agoraphobia
Symptoms
Psychological symptoms:
- Constant worry, restlessness
- Uncontrollable anxious thoughts
- Expecting danger or catastrophe
- Difficulty concentrating
- Irritability, tension
- Sleep problems
Physical symptoms:
- Palpitations, rapid pulse
- Sweating, trembling
- Shortness of breath, feeling of suffocation
- Chest pain or tightness
- Nausea, abdominal pain
- Dizziness
- Muscle tension
- Extreme fatigue
- Numbness, tingling
Causes
The exact cause is unknown, but multiple factors play a role:
- Genetics: Family history increases the risk
- Brain chemistry: Imbalance of neurotransmitters such as serotonin and dopamine
- Environmental stress: Trauma, loss, work or relationship problems
- Medical conditions: Thyroid, heart, respiratory diseases
- Substance use: Alcohol, caffeine, drugs
Risk Factors
- Being female (2 times more common)
- Childhood trauma
- Stressful life events
- Family history
- Other mental illnesses (such as depression)
- Certain personality traits (perfectionism)
- Chronic physical illness
- Substance abuse
Complications
- Depression
- Substance dependence
- Sleep disorders
- Digestive problems
- Chronic headaches
- Social isolation
- Decreased work and school performance
- Suicidal thoughts (in severe cases)
When to See a Doctor
- If anxiety is affecting your daily life, work, or relationships
- If fears and worries become uncontrollable
- If you experience panic attacks
- If anxiety is accompanied by depression or substance use
- Seek psychiatric help immediately if you have suicidal thoughts
Diagnosis and Treatment
Diagnosis is made through a detailed interview and standardized anxiety scales.
Treatment:
- Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT): The most effective psychological treatment
- Medications: SSRIs, SNRIs (paroxetine, sertraline, venlafaxine); short-term benzodiazepines
- Exposure therapy: Especially for phobias
- Relaxation techniques: Breathing exercises, meditation, yoga
A combination of therapy and medication usually produces the best results.
Prevention
- Seek help early; do not ignore anxiety
- Learn to manage stress (meditation, breathing exercises)
- Exercise regularly
- Avoid caffeine, alcohol, and drugs
- Get enough sleep
- Strengthen your social support
- Eat regularly and healthily