Definition

Anxiety is a state of dread, tension, and unease. It is considered a normal response to stress or uncertain situations. Feeling anxious for long periods of time or at intense levels may mean that you have an anxiety disorder. You may be diagnosed with an anxiety disorder if the anxiety:

• Occurs without an external threat (called “free-floating” anxiety)
• Is excessive or unreasonable for the situation or threat
• Negatively affects how you function during the day

The most common types of anxiety disorders are:

• Specific phobias
• Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
• Panic disorder
• Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)
• Social anxiety disorder
• Generalized anxiety disorder

Anxiety may occur with other conditions, such as alcohol abuse, drug abuse, and depression.

Causes

Anxiety disorders may result from a combination of factors, such as:

• Genetics
• Factors in the environment

Chemical imbalances in the brain may also play a role.

Risk Factors

Anxiety disorders are more common in females. Factors that may increase the risk of anxiety disorders include:

• Family member with anxiety disorders
• Stressful life events
• Poor coping strategies
• History of physical or psychological trauma
• Chronic medical illness
• Substance abuse
• History of self-harm as a teenager, with or without suicidal intent

Symptoms

Psychological symptoms may include:

• Worry or dread
• Obsessive or intrusive thoughts
• Sense of imminent danger or catastrophe
• Fear or panic
• Restlessness
• Irritability
• Impatience
• Uncertainty
• Trouble concentrating

Physical symptoms may include:

• Headache
• Fatigue
• Chest pain
• Rapid heartbeat
• Sweating (especially the palms)
• Dry mouth
• Flushing or blushing
• Muscle tension
• Shortness of breath
• Feeling lightheaded or fainting
• Difficulty sleeping
• Shaking
• Choking sensation
• Abdominal discomfort
• Nausea or vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Feeling of “butterflies” in the stomach
• Sexual difficulties
• Tingling sensations
• Nail biting or other habitual behavior

Diagnosis

You will be asked about your symptoms and medical history. A psychiatric exam will be done. A physical exam may also be done. You may be referred to a psychotherapist for further evaluation.

Treatment

Effective treatment usually involves a combination of interventions, including:

Prevention

To help prevent anxiety, consider taking the following steps:

• Avoid situations, occupations, and people that cause you stress.
• If unavoidable, confront and overcome situations that provoke anxiety.
• Find a relaxation technique that works for you. Use it regularly.
• Develop and maintain a strong social support system.
• Express your emotions when they happen.
• Challenge irrational beliefs and thoughts that are not helpful to you.
• Correct misperceptions. Ask others for their points of view.
• Work with a therapist.
• Avoid using nicotine or other drugs. If you drink alcohol, drink only in moderation.

Mental Health America http://www.nmha.org

Canadian Psychological Association http://www.cpa.ca

Generalized anxiety disorder. EBSCO DynaMed website. Available at:
http://www.ebscohost.com/dynamed
Updated August 29, 2014. Accessed November 10, 2014.

Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD). National Institute of Mental Health website. Available at:
http://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/generalized-anxiety-disorder-gad/index.shtml
Accessed November 10, 2014.

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