Anxiety Disorder: Symptoms, Causes and Treatment

Anxiety disorder is a common mental health condition marked by ongoing and intense worry or fear that interferes with daily functioning. Unlike stress responses, anxiety disorders involve persistent feelings of dread and difficulty managing daily tasks. They include various types, such as panic attacks, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and specific phobias, each with its distinct symptoms and features.

Symptoms of anxiety disorder include persistent worry, fear, and uneasiness that severely impact daily functioning, according to an article published by the World Health Organization (WHO) 2023, “Anxiety Disorder.”  Individuals experience intense episodes of anxiety, known as panic attacks, accompanied by physical symptoms like rapid heartbeat and shortness of breath. Other common symptoms include muscle tension, sleep disturbances, and constant restlessness. 

The causes of anxiety disorder are multifaceted, involving genetic, chemical, and environmental factors, according to Adwas AA et al. 2019, “Anxiety: Insights into Signs, Symptoms, Etiology, Pathophysiology, and Treatment.” Genetics play a role in increasing susceptibility to anxiety disorders, while chemical imbalances in neurotransmitters such as serotonin and norepinephrine contribute to mood disturbances. Trauma, including childhood abuse and exposure to distressing events, also triggers or worsens anxiety. Additionally, chronic stress and interpersonal conflicts further contribute to the development of anxiety disorders.

Treatment for anxiety disorder typically involves a combination of counseling, medications, and lifestyle changes, according to Bandelow B, Michaelis S, Wedekind D., et al. “Treatment of anxiety disorders.” Counseling methods like cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) address negative thought patterns and help manage anxiety symptoms. Medications, including antidepressants and anti-anxiety drugs, balance brain chemistry to alleviate symptoms. Lifestyle changes such as regular exercise, healthy eating, and stress management techniques also play a crucial role in effectively managing anxiety.

What is Anxiety Disorder?

Anxiety disorder is a mental health condition characterized by persistent and excessive worry or fear that significantly impacts an individual’s daily life as defined by the American Psychiatric Association 2023, “What are Anxiety Disorder.” Unlike occasional anxiety, which is a normal stress response, anxiety disorders involve chronic and overwhelming feelings of dread and apprehension that interfere with a person’s ability to function normally.

Anxiety disorders are the most common type of mental disorder, affecting nearly 30% of adults at some point in their lives according to an article published by the American Psychiatric Association 2023, “What are Anxiety Disorder.” These disorders manifest in various forms, each with unique symptoms and characteristics. For instance, panic attacks, social anxiety disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), and phobias, or specific fears, are common types of anxiety disorder, according to Mental Health UK, “Types of Anxiety Disorders.”

What are the Symptoms of Anxiety Disorder?

The symptoms of anxiety disorders include persistent feelings of worry, fear, and uneasiness, according to an article published by the National Institute of Mental Health, “Anxiety Disorder.” People with anxiety disorders often experience these symptoms intensely and chronically, making it difficult for them to function normally in their daily lives. The emotional toll of an anxiety disorder is overwhelming, leading to a constant state of dread and nervousness. 

The most common symptoms of anxiety disorder, according to an article published by the World Health Organization (WHO) 2023, “Anxiety Disorder,” are given below:

• Panic Attacks: Panic attacks are sudden and intense episodes of fear that occur abruptly, accompanied by physical symptoms such as rapid heartbeat, sweating, and trembling, according to WHO. They are triggered by stress or occur spontaneously, leading to a persistent fear of experiencing future attacks.
• Restlessness: Restlessness is characterized by a continual feeling of being on edge or unable to relax. This symptom of anxiety makes it challenging for individuals to concentrate and effectively disrupts their daily activities and functioning.
• Fear and Uneasiness: Fear and uneasiness involve constant and overwhelming feelings of anxiety and dread that are often disproportionate to the actual situation, according to WHO. These feelings are triggered by specific objects, conditions, or events or occur without a clear cause.
• Rapid Heartbeat (Tachycardia): Rapid heartbeat, or tachycardia, is a physical symptom of anxiety in which the heart beats faster than normal or irregularly. Tachycardia occurs during anxiety attacks or as a chronic condition, contributing to increased stress and worry about one’s health, according to WHO.
• Shortness of Breath: Shortness of breath refers to difficulty breathing or a sensation of suffocation that often accompanies panic attacks or severe anxiety episodes, according to WHO. This symptom causes significant distress and exacerbates feelings of fear and panic.
• Muscle Tension: Muscle tension involves chronic tightness or strain in the muscles, leading to aches, pains, and physical discomfort, according to WHO. This symptom is worsened by stress and anxiety, contributing to further discomfort and unease.
• Sleep Disturbances: Sleep disturbances are characterized by difficulty falling or staying asleep due to racing thoughts or worry. Poor sleep quality worsens other anxiety symptoms, creating a cycle of increased anxiety and sleep problems, according to WHO.

What are the Symptoms of Anxiety Disorder in Females?

Symptoms of anxiety disorder in females often include persistent worry, irritability, and physical symptoms such as headaches and muscle tension, as mentioned by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, 2023, “Women and Anxiety.” Women experience more intense fear and uneasiness triggered by daily stressors or hormonal changes, as studied by Shawon MSR, Hossain FB, Hasan M, and Rahman MR. et al. 2024, “Gender differences in the prevalence of anxiety and depression and care seeking for mental health problems in Nepal: Analysis of nationally representative survey data.” This analysis suggests that women have a higher point prevalence of anxiety, 21.9% vs. 11.3% for men. Common signs include sleep disturbances, fatigue, and an increased heart rate. Social and generalized anxiety disorders are more prevalent in females, often leading to avoidance behaviors and impacting personal and professional relationships, according to the World Health Organization (WHO) 2023, “Anxiety Disorder.

What are the Symptoms of Anxiety Disorder in Children?

In children, anxiety disorder symptoms manifest as excessive worry about academic performance, social interactions, or family issues. They experience frequent stomachaches, headaches, or other physical complaints without medical cause. The prevalence of anxiety among girls and boys was 15.1% and 13.2%, respectively, according to Mohammadi MR, Nastaran Ahmadi N, et al. 2020, “Prevalence, comorbidity and predictors of anxiety disorders among children and adolescents.”

Behavioral signs include restlessness, irritability, and difficulty concentrating, according to the study by the Center for Disease Control and Prevention 2023, “Anxiety and Depression in Children.” Children with anxiety also exhibit avoidance of certain activities or places, clinginess, and trouble sleeping. These symptoms interfere with their ability to engage in typical childhood activities and affect their overall development.

What are the Symptoms of Anxiety Disorder in Dogs?

Anxiety disorder in dogs presents as excessive barking, whining, or howling, particularly when left alone, according to PetMD 2019, “Extreme Fear and Anxiety in Dogs.” They exhibit destructive behaviors such as chewing furniture or digging and experience changes in appetite or sleep patterns. Physical symptoms include pacing, trembling, and excessive licking or grooming, as mentioned by a study published by Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine, Tufts University, in 2023, “Anxiety in Dogs.” Dogs with anxiety also become more aggressive or fearful in certain situations, and they display signs of distress like panting or drooling excessively. 

What are the Causes of Anxiety Disorder?

The causes of anxiety disorders include genetics, chemical imbalances in the brain, and traumatic experiences, according to a study by Adwas AA et al. 2019, “Anxiety: Insights into Signs, Symptoms, Etiology, Pathophysiology, and Treatment,” as described below:

• Genetics: Genetics refers to the study of understanding how hereditary information is passed from parents to offspring and how it influences physical and mental characteristics, including anxiety disorders. A genetic predisposition to anxiety disorders seriously increases the likelihood of developing anxiety, as studied by Adwas. Individuals with a family history of anxiety disorders are 30% more prone to experiencing chronic and pervasive anxiety that requires long-term management, as found by Gottschalk MG, Domschke K., et al. 2017, “Genetics of generalized anxiety disorder and related traits.”
• Chemical Imbalance: Chemical imbalance refers to the disruption in the levels of neurotransmitters or other chemicals in the brain, including serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine, which regulate mood, emotion, and behavior. These imbalances cause significant mood disruptions, triggering and aggravating anxiety, according to work done by Martin EI, Ressler KJ, Binder E, and Nemeroff CB. et al. 2009, “The neurobiology of anxiety disorders: brain imaging, genetics, and psychoneuroendocrinology.”
• Trauma: Trauma is a psychological and emotional response to an event or series of deeply distressing or disturbing events. Exposure to traumatic experiences, such as physical or emotional abuse, leads to severe and persistent stress, resulting in lasting anxiety and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), as studied by Adwas.
• Childhood Sexual Abuse: Childhood sexual abuse is a form of maltreatment involving any sexual activity with a child, including physical contact, exploitation, or coercion. It has severe and long-lasting effects on a child’s emotional and psychological development. Childhood sexual abuse contributes to the development of anxiety disorders, as studied by Adwas. The impact is severe, leading to chronic anxiety, depression, and difficulties in forming healthy relationships.
• Conflict: Conflict is a state of disagreement or opposition between individuals or groups due to differing interests, values, or needs. It causes significant emotional and psychological stress and affects relationships and mental health. Conflict is an effective source of stress and anxiety, according to a study by Adwas. Ongoing conflicts exacerbate anxiety symptoms, making it difficult to find peace and maintain emotional stability.
• Anxiety in the Brain: Anxiety in the brain refers to the abnormal activation of brain regions involved in fear and stress, such as the amygdala and prefrontal cortex. Overactive areas of the brain associated with fear and stress response lead to heightened anxiety and panic attacks, according to Adwas’s findings, affecting overall mental health.
• Stress: Stress is a physiological and psychological response to perceived challenges or threats characterized by emotional and mental strain. It involves the body’s reaction to external pressures. Prolonged exposure to stress exhausts the body’s ability to cope, resulting in persistent anxiety and related symptoms such as chest pain, depression, and insomnia, according to research by Daviu N, Bruchas MR, et al. 2019, “Neurobiological links between stress and anxiety.” This research has shown that stress and anxiety, while interrelated, have distinct neurobiological mechanisms.

What are the Treatments of Anxiety Disorder?

The treatments for anxiety disorder include counseling, medications, lifestyle changes, and stress management techniques, according to a study by Bandelow B, Michaelis S, Wedekind D., et al. “Treatment of anxiety disorders.” Counseling, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy, helps individuals manage and reduce anxiety symptoms by addressing negative thought patterns. Medications, including antidepressants and anti-anxiety drugs, are prescribed to balance brain chemistry and alleviate symptoms. Additionally, lifestyle changes like regular exercise, healthy eating, and adequate sleep, combined with stress management techniques such as mindfulness and relaxation exercises, play a vital role in managing anxiety effectively.

The common treatment options for anxiety disorders, according to an article published by the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), “Anxiety Disorders,” include:

• Self Care
• Therapies
• Medicines

Self Care

Self-care refers to individuals’ practices and activities to maintain and improve their physical, mental, and emotional health. It involves taking proactive steps to manage stress, enhance well-being, and prevent illness through exercise, healthy eating, adequate sleep, and mindfulness. Self-care is beneficial for anxiety disorders as it empowers individuals to manage their symptoms and reduce stress through lifestyle changes and healthy habits, according to an article published by Medline Plus 2023, “Generalized anxiety disorder – self-care.” through the following techniques: 

• Avoid alcohol: Reducing alcohol intake helps decrease anxiety symptoms since alcohol disrupts sleep and impacts brain chemistry.
• Quit smoking: Smoking cessation is important because nicotine increases anxiety and causes dependence that exacerbates stress.
• Reduce caffeine intake: Limiting caffeine helps prevent the jitteriness and heightened anxiety that caffeine triggers.
• Implement stress management: Incorporating techniques like time management and setting realistic goals lowers overall stress levels.
• Practice relaxation techniques: Relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, yoga, or meditation help calm the mind and body.
• Engage in physical exercise: Regular exercise releases endorphins, improves mood, and reduces anxiety.
• Maintain a healthy diet: Eating a balanced diet rich in nutrients supports overall health and helps stabilize mood and energy levels.

Therapies

Therapies are structured treatments designed to address and manage various physical, mental, or emotional health issues. Psychological therapies include methods such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), psychotherapy, and counseling, which aim to improve symptoms of anxiety disorder, according to NIMH. Therapies promote overall well-being through professional guidance and techniques through the following methods: 

• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is a structured, evidence-based psychotherapy that identifies and modifies negative thought patterns and behaviors. CBT helps individuals develop healthier ways of thinking and coping with anxiety, according to a review article by Kaczkurkin AN, Foa EB. et al. 2015, “Cognitive-behavioral therapy for anxiety disorders: an update on the empirical evidence.” The review compared exposure and cognitive methods of CBT and found exposure therapy more efficacious in the treatment of anxiety disorders. 
• Meditation: Meditation practices, such as mindfulness, help reduce anxiety by promoting relaxation and increasing awareness of the present moment, which reduces the impact of stressors.
• Psychotherapy: Psychotherapy, or talk therapy, allows individuals to explore their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors with a therapist, providing insight and strategies to manage anxiety more effectively.

Medications

Medications are substances healthcare professionals prescribe to treat, manage, or alleviate symptoms of medical conditions. They work by altering biochemical processes in the body and include antidepressants, anti-anxiety medications, pain relievers, and other drugs tailored to help manage the chemical imbalances in the brain associated with anxiety disorders, according to the article by NIMH. The following medications are helpful for anxiety treatment as they alleviate symptoms, making it easier for individuals to function in their daily lives:

• SSRIs: Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs) increase serotonin levels in the brain, which helps reduce anxiety and improve mood.
• Anxiolytics: These medications specifically target anxiety symptoms, providing rapid relief from acute anxiety episodes and helping to manage chronic anxiety.
• Antidepressants: Antidepressants alleviate anxiety by balancing neurotransmitters in the brain, reducing symptoms of both anxiety and depression.
• Benzodiazepines: Benzodiazepines provide quick relief for severe anxiety by enhancing the effect of the neurotransmitter GABA, promoting relaxation and reducing tension.
• Sedatives: Sedatives are used to calm the nervous system, reducing anxiety symptoms and helping individuals sleep better.
• Nerve Pain Medication: Certain medications originally designed for nerve pain, such as gabapentin, also help alleviate anxiety by stabilizing electrical activity in the brain.

What are the Key Risk Factors for Anxiety Disorders?

The key risk factors for anxiety disorders include genetics, environmental stressors, trauma, and personality traits. Genetics predispose individuals to anxiety disorders if there is a family history of mental health issues. Individuals having a family history of anxiety are 30% more prone to develop anxiety, as found by research conducted by Gottschalk MG, Domschke K., et al. 2017, “Genetics of generalized anxiety disorder and related traits.” 

Environmental stressors such as chronic stress, conflict, or life changes trigger or worsen anxiety symptoms, according to a book by Lawrence PJ, Waite P., et al. 2019, “Pediatric Anxiety Disorders.” Trauma, including childhood abuse or significant life events, leaves lasting impacts that contribute to the development of anxiety disorders. Additionally, certain personality traits, such as being highly introverted or having a tendency towards perfectionism, increase the likelihood of experiencing anxiety, according to research conducted by Yang T, Guo Z, Zhu X, Liu X, Guo Y. et al. 2023, “The interplay of personality traits, anxiety, and depression in Chinese college students: a network analysis.” The research concluded that Neuroticism, a personality trait related to negative emotional states, is highly associated with several anxiety disorders, including various phobias, panic disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), and generalized anxiety disorder.

How Common are Anxiety Disorders?

Anxiety disorders are very common worldwide and in the United States. Approximately 19.1% of U.S. adults experienced an anxiety disorder in 2023, according to “Mental Health Statistics 2024,” published by the University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences. This translates to about 40 million adults in the U.S. who suffer from anxiety disorders last year.

What are the Types of Anxiety Disorders?

The types of anxiety disorders include Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Panic Disorder, Agoraphobia, Social Anxiety Disorder, Specific Phobia, Obsessive–obsessive-compulsive disorder, and Separation Anxiety Disorder. Anxiety disorders encompass a range of conditions, each with distinct features but all characterized by excessive and persistent worry or fear, according to an article by Craske MG et al. 2009, “What Is an Anxiety Disorder?”

The most prevailing types of anxiety disorders are:

Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD): Generalized Anxiety Disorder is a mental health condition characterized by persistent and excessive worry or anxiety about multiple aspects of daily life, such as work, health, or social interactions. This chronic anxiety occurs without a specific trigger and interferes with an individual’s ability to function normally, according to Craske.

• Panic Disorder: Panic Disorder is defined by recurrent and unexpected panic attacks, which are sudden periods of intense fear or discomfort that include symptoms such as rapid heartbeat, sweating, shaking, and a feeling of impending doom. These attacks occur without warning and lead to significant distress or avoidance behaviors, according to the book Cackovic C, Nazir S, Marwaha R., et al. 2023, “Panic Disorder.”
• Agoraphobia: Agoraphobia is a type of anxiety disorder characterized by an intense fear of being in situations or places where escape might be difficult or help not available during a panic attack. Individuals with agoraphobia often avoid such places or endure them with significant anxiety, as studied by Craske.
• Social Anxiety Disorder: Social Anxiety Disorder, also known as social phobia, is a condition of persistent fear of social or performance situations where the individual is exposed to potential scrutiny or embarrassment. This fear significantly impairs daily functioning and social interactions, as Craske mentioned.
• Specific Phobias: Specific Phobias are mental health conditions characterized by an intense and irrational fear of a particular object or situation, such as heights, spiders, or flying. This fear is disproportionate to the actual threat and leads to avoidance behaviors or significant distress when confronted with the phobic stimulus, according to the study by Craske.
• Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD): Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder is a type of anxiety disorder caused by the presence of obsessive thoughts—persistent and intrusive worries or fears—and compulsive behaviors—repetitive actions performed to alleviate the anxiety caused by the obsessions. The behaviors or mental acts are performed to reduce distress or prevent a feared event, according to Craske.
• Separation Anxiety Disorder: Separation Anxiety Disorder is characterized by excessive and persistent fear or anxiety about separation from attachment figures, such as parents or caregivers. This disorder is commonly observed in children but also occurs in adults and often results in significant distress or avoidance of separation-related situations.

Can Anxiety Disorder cause Depression?

According to the consensus, anxiety disorder causes depression. Patients with anxiety are more likely to be severely depressed and to have more suicidal ideation, according to Fava M, Alpert JE, Carmin CN, et al. 2004, “Clinical correlates and symptom patterns of anxious depression among patients with major depressive disorder in STAR*D.” The ongoing struggle to manage anxiety depletes an individual’s emotional and psychological resources, making them more susceptible to depressive episodes.

Anxiety and depression coexist because both conditions share overlapping symptoms and worsen each other, according to a study by Dobson KS et al. 1985, “The Relationship Between Anxiety And Depression.” The distress from one condition aggravates the other, creating a cycle of worsening symptoms and impacting overall well-being.

How do Neurotransmitters Affect Anxiety?

Neurotransmitters upregulate or downregulate anxiety disorders. Imbalances in various neurotransmitters, some inhibitory and some excitatory are involved in anxiety, such as serotonin, glutamate, gamma-aminobutyric acid, Cholecystokinin, Adenosine, etc., according to a research journal, International Journal Of Pharmaceutical Sciences And Research 2017, “Role Of Different Neurotransmitters In Anxiety: A Systemic Review.” 

Serotonin and norepinephrine are involved in mood regulation and stress response. Low serotonin levels and irregularities in norepinephrine activity contribute to heightened anxiety and mood disorders. GABA, an inhibitory neurotransmitter, helps to calm neural activity. Reduced GABA activity leads to increased anxiety and stress responses, as suggested by the review.

Can you Get Rid of Anxiety Disorder?

Yes. You can get rid of anxiety disorders by managing and treating the signs and symptoms effectively with the right medical care. Medications have a role in treating anxiety disorders; according to research by the American Psychological Association 2023, “How psychologists help with anxiety disorders,” behavioral treatment, alone or in combination with medication, is a highly effective treatment for most people with an anxiety disorder. Seeking professional help is crucial, as healthcare providers offer various treatment options, including therapy, medications, and lifestyle recommendations tailored to individual needs. With appropriate treatment, many people experience significant relief from symptoms and improve their quality of life.

Who are the Specialists of Anxiety Disorder?

Specialists who help with anxiety disorders, according to an article by Healthline 2023, “Doctors Who Treat Anxiety,” include:

• Clinical Psychologist: A Clinical Psychologist is a mental health professional with a doctoral degree in psychology trained to assess, diagnose, and treat psychological disorders, including anxiety disorders, through various therapeutic techniques, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). They are not medical doctors and typically do not prescribe medication.
• Psychiatrist: A Psychiatrist is a medical doctor specializing in the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of mental health disorders, including anxiety. They prescribe medication, provide psychotherapy, and offer other medical treatments for mental health conditions.
• Primary Care Provider (PCP): A PCP is a general medical doctor who manages overall health care, including diagnosing and treating common health issues and referring patients to specialists. They recognize signs of anxiety and provide initial treatment or refer patients to mental health specialists for further evaluation and care.