WHAT IS ANXIETY DISORDER

You might be in the midst of an emotional storm, tossing and turning with every minute, hardly keeping still. A voice might be following you everywhere, the loudest it is when no one is around.  You might be anxious of what tomorrow will be, which is draining all the strength of your today. These feelings might be beyond normal, as you might be suffering from an anxiety disorder.

Anxiety, however, can be a normal phenomenon for most people. For example, appearing for an interview might make anyone anxious, or speaking to a large group of people can keep us on our toes. But, constantly worrying without any purpose, getting distressed with the slightest of things or showing excessive fear even in normal situations can trigger anxiety disorders.

In contrast to regular anxiety, anxiety disorders are characterized by excessive behavioral disturbances. The severity of these disorders can be identified when they continue for days, months or even years. Some of these cases can be debilitating if left untreated. The patient must be examined by a licensed physician who can properly assess the actual level of threat in comparison to the individual’s perception of threat.

According to the National Alliance of Mental Illness, about 42 million adults in the United States live with anxiety disorders such as panic disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), generalized anxiety disorder and various phobias. A person suffering from anxiety disorder experiences frequent, powerful attacks of anxiety that interfere with his personal, professional and social life.

Causes of Anxiety Disorders

Anxiety disorders can occur due to a variety of factors, including hereditary, stress, physical health problems or substance abuse. Some of the causes are detailed below:

• Family History: People can acquire anxiety disorders from their family or relatives who have a history of this mental illness. However, it does not necessarily mean that one will automatically struggle with anxiety disorders due to a family history. Other circumstances and factors also act as important triggers.

• Ongoing Stressful Events: Ongoing stressful situations like job issues, family problems, unstable accommodation, major emotional shock, traumatic events, death or loss of a loved one, etc., can also trigger anxiety disorders.

• Physical Health Problems: Physical health problems can be an underlying cause of anxiety disorders. They can trigger anxiety as well as complicate the treatment process of either anxiety or the prevailing illness. People who suffer from asthma, diabetes, heart disease, and hormonal issues, such as thyroid problems, can also develop the disease.

• Substance Use: Long-term use of substances such as alcohol, cannabis, amphetamines or sedatives can cause anxiety symptoms. In fact, withdrawal-related anxiety can be the consequence of abstinence from drugs and alcohol during the recovery process.

• Personality: Certain complex personality traits can also lead to anxiety, that is to say, people who are perfectionists, introverts or control freaks are more susceptible to developing anxiety disorders.

 It is important to remember that anxiety disorders can be caused by a variety of factors. The only solution is to read between the lines and seek support.

Signs and Symptoms

Anxiety disorders can vary from person to person, with each one producing unique symptoms. However, all anxiety disorders have at least one thing in common that is incessant worries and fear even in unlikely situations. People with anxiety disorders can experience one or more of the following symptoms:

Emotional symptoms

• Excessive worry
• Feelings of apprehension or dread
• Being tensed and jumpy
• Restlessness or irritability
• Bad dreams
• Inability to rest
• Anticipation of the worst

Physical symptoms

• Heart palpitations
• Shortness of breath
• Sweating
• Upset stomach
• Sweating, tremors and twitches
• Headaches, fatigue and insomnia

Symptoms of anxiety disorders normally involve responses to stressful situations that significantly affect an individual’s mental and physical health. The symptoms may vary depending on the type of anxiety caused; however, fear is the common link between all.

Finding Help

Needing help is not a sign of weakness but a positive step that makes you stand for the betterment of your own life. We, at Texas Anxiety Treatment Helpline are committed to help all those who seek assistance from us. We can help you to find the best treatment options and provide you with any information regarding anxiety disorders. Please chat online or call at 866-487-5015 to start your journey of an anxiety-free life.