Anxiety
Definition |
Causes |
Risk Factors |
Symptoms |
Diagnosis |
Treatment |
Prevention |
Organizations
Definition
Anxiety is a state of apprehension, tension, and uneasiness in response to a perceived threat. It is considered normal, when it is temporary during a stressful or uncertain situation. Prolonged, intense, or inappropriate periods of anxiety may indicate an anxiety disorder. See also: Generalized Anxiety Disorder.
Causes
Anxiety may result from many factors including:
- Appropriate response under stressful circumstances
- Drugs that affect the nervous system, such as:
- Caffeine
- Alcohol
- Cocaine
- Antidepressants
- Nicotine
- Amphetamines
- Biological factors:
- Brain chemistry imbalances
- Personality traits
- Faulty perceptions and irrational beliefs (e.g. phobias)
- Unresolved emotional conflicts
Risk Factors
A risk factor is something that increases your chance of getting a disease or condition.
- Sex: female
- Family member with anxiety disorders
- Stressful life events
- Ineffective coping strategies
- History of physical or psychological trauma
Symptoms
Anxiety has psychological and physical symptoms.
Psychological symptoms may include:
- Worry or dread
- Obsessive or intrusive thoughts
- Sense of imminent danger or catastrophe
- Fear or panic
- Restlessness
- Irritability
- Impatience
- Ambivalence
- Trouble concentrating
Physical symptoms may include:
- Rapid or irregular heartbeat
- Sweating, especially the palms
- Dry mouth
- Flushing or blushing
- Muscle tension
- Shortness of breath
- Lightheadedness or faintness
- Difficulty sleeping
- Shaking
- Choking sensation
- Frequent urination
- Nausea or vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Constipation
- Feeling of "butterflies" in the stomach
- Sexual difficulties
- Tingling sensations
- Nail biting or other habitual behavior
Diagnosis
The doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical history. You will be given a psychiatric evaluation. Your doctor may also perform a physical exam and diagnostic tests. Usually the results of these tests are normal. You may be referred to a psychotherapist for further evaluation.
Treatment
Effective treatment usually involves a combination of interventions, including:
Lifestyle Changes
- Get sufficient rest and sleep.
- Avoid tobacco.
- Drink alcohol in moderation.
- Give up illicit drugs.
- Reduce exposure to stressful environments.
- Exercise regularly.
Relaxation Techniques
- Deep breathing
- Meditation
- Deep muscle relaxation
- Massage
- Engaging in pleasurable activities
Social Support
- Strong support system of family and friends
- Counseling to improve coping skills
- Support groups
Psychotherapy
- Addresses thoughts, feelings and behaviors that play a role in anxiety
- Helps you work through unresolved psychological trauma and conflict
Medication
For severe anxiety or anxiety disorder, medications may include:
- Benzodiazepines
- Buspirone
- Tricyclic antidepressants
- Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors
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 and use it regularly.
- Develop and maintain a strong social support system.
- Express your emotions when they happen.
- Challenge irrational beliefs and counterproductive thoughts.
- Correct misperceptions; ask others for their views.
- Work with a psychotherapist or marriage and family counselor.
- Avoid using nicotine or other drugs, and drink alcohol in moderation.
Organizations
Anxiety Disorders Association of America
http://www.adaa.org
SOURCES:
National Institute of Mental Health
Last reviewed June 2001 by Medical Review Board
