Anxiety is a common mental health disorder characterized by constant feelings of worry, nervousness, or unease. It often involves:
- Physical symptoms like a racing heart, sweating, trembling, fatigue, difficulty sleeping, stomachaches or headaches. These can be quite distressing on their own.
- Excessive worrying and apprehension about everyday situations and problems, even when there is little reason to be concerned. People with anxiety tend to anticipate the worst.
- Feeling agitated or unable to relax. Anxious people have trouble "shutting off" their minds. Their worries make it very difficult to wind down.
- Avoidance. People with anxiety disorders often try to avoid objects or situations that trigger anxiety, like social events or confined spaces. The avoidance can severely restrict their lives.
Anxiety disorders include generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), social anxiety disorder, panic disorder, phobias, and separation anxiety disorder.
Anxiety vs. fear: What's the difference? Fear is typically a reaction to an immediate threat, like escaping from danger. Anxiety usually occurs without any particular reason or focus. It's more uncontrollable and irrational.
What causes anxiety? Research points to a combination of factors, namely genetics, brain chemistry, and childhood experiences. Traumatic events in childhood, like abuse or loss of a parent, may spark anxiety disorders later in life.
When does anxiety become a disorder? Occasional anxiety is normal and even beneficial at times. It helps us prepare, focus, and summon energy.
Anxiety disorders, however, are marked by excessive, irrational anxiety and fear. The feelings are persistent, lasting 6 months or more, and interfere significantly in the person's social life, career, relationships, or other parts of life.
This answer just scratches the surface, but hopefully provides a helpful introduction to anxiety disorders. Visit Renew Wellness for more information and support.