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  • Anxiety: What Is It and What Causes It?

    When you experience certain types of emotions, you can clearly recognize and identify what’s going on.

    But some emotions aren’t as easy to identify or deal with in the moment. Some emotions, like anxiety, can have a different impact on a person-by-person basis.

    While you may be slightly familiar with anxiety, have a general idea of what it is, and may even be aware of some of the causes, many people may feel it’s difficult to understand. There are a lot of unknowns about anxiety to learn more about.

    Let’s learn more about anxiety, what it is, and what causes it.

    What Is Anxiety?

    Anxiety is a feeling that someone may experience when going through stress. Anxiety is what happens when the body responds to a perceived threat or stress. While anxiety may be a normal and common emotion and feeling, an anxiety disorder can look a little different. An anxiety disorder is something that can impact someone’s daily life and routine. If the feelings of anxiety don’t pass or get worse over time, there may be a larger issue at play.

    The Cause

    There isn’t one single cause of anxiety. In fact, there are many possible causes more than one of which may factor into any given person’s anxiety. Here are some of the most commonly believed causes and risk factors of anxiety:

    Medical Causes

    Inherited traits or medical causes may be the root of anxiety for many people. These are some of the most common medical conditions that can be linked to anxiety:

    • Chronic pain
    • Diabetes
    • Heart disease
    • Respiratory disorders
    • Substance misuse
    • Thyroid problems
    • Tumors

    On top of these common medical problems that are linked to anxiety, individuals with a medical illness are more likely to worry about medical-related issues with their future, finances, and treatment.

    Personality Traits

    There is some research that suggests a correlation between some personality traits and the likelihood of developing anxiety. For example, individuals who identify as more introverted, perfectionistic, or have histories of rumination may be more prone to anxiety.

    Stress

    The uncertainties of life’s ups and downs alone can cause anxiety. Significant life events, transitions, and stressors may be catalysts for symptoms of anxiety. 

    Substance Use

    Anxiety can cause a vicious cycle of substance use and abuse. When anxiety is severe, individuals may turn to unhealthy coping mechanisms like drugs or alcohol. While these may be short-term solutions, they can actually lead to worsening signs and symptoms and can be tough habits to break.

    Trauma

    Trauma can of course be a significant cause of anxiety. Individuals who experience trauma or have witnessed a traumatic event can be at a higher risk of developing anxiety. This may be expressed by an elevated startle response, flashbacks, sleep disruption, anger problems, and avoidance of reminders of the event. 

    The Signs and Symptoms

    While anxiety is something that many individuals can experience throughout their lifetime, a true anxiety disorder will show signs and symptoms that can cause disruptions in someone’s daily life and routine. These are some of the most common signs and symptoms of an anxiety disorder:

    • Avoiding people, places, and things that may trigger anxious thoughts and feelings
    • Difficulty concentrating
    • Digestive issues
    • Increased heart rate
    • Nervousness
    • Restlessness
    • Sense of danger or doom
    • Sweating
    • Trouble sleeping
    • Racing or repetitive thoughts

    Treatment Options

    Anxiety can be a normal human emotion. However, if you start to notice that it’s negatively impacting your ability to function, additional support may be needed.  While there are certain lifestyle changes you can make on your own end to help reduce some of the signs and symptoms, working with a trained mental health professional is often the best option. Reach out today to set up a consultation for anxiety therapy.