Fear accompanies us every day, from the day we are born. It can be unfounded or inadequate, but it is a natural emotional state that occurs in the everyday life of every person. So where do anxiety disorders come from? In this article, you will learn about the causes of anxiety disorders, what types of anxiety disorders exist, and how to treat them.
CAUSES OF ANXIETY DISORDERS
Anxiety disorders most commonly arise from a combination of factors and depend on several parameters. Below are 5 causes of anxiety disorders.
1.Genetics
Mental disorders (of various kinds) in the family may predispose the development of anxiety disorders in future generations. Of course, this does not mean that it is always the case.
2.Stressful events
Every person responds differently to events in everyday life, as well as those that occur only rarely. Therefore, some situations, such as changing jobs, moving house, pregnancy, experiencing traumatic events or sexual or physical violence, may have chronic consequences for people who are more sensitive to stress.
3.Physical health problems
Some somatic diseases can trigger anxiety. These can be hormonal disorders, diabetes, asthma, and heart disease.
4.Psychoactive substance use
Addictive substances, such as alcohol, marijuana, amphetamines, and other drugs, as well as sedatives, can cause anxiety. It is also common for people who already suffer from anxiety disorders to use stimulants to calm symptoms, dementia, and reduce anxiety.
5.Personality
Many studies on anxiety disorders show that certain personality traits can predispose people to excessive shyness. Among them is perfectionism, the need to strive for perfection in every activity.
In this case, anxiety can arouse fear of failure, for example. Other signs that can result in an increased susceptibility to anxiety disorders can be an increased need for control, as well as low self-confidence.
ANXIETY DISORDERS – TYPES
There are different types of anxiety disorders. A good illustrative example is arachnophobia, which is a frequent fear of spiders. In this case, any contact with a spider can trigger panic attacks, nausea, crying, and other symptoms accompanying anxiety disorders.
The most common types of anxiety disorders in the population include social phobia, generalized anxiety disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and post-traumatic stress disorder.
1.Social Phobia
People with social phobia experience a strong fear when exposed to any social situations in which there is a possibility that others will judge them. The reason for fear is the fear of potential criticism, shame, or humiliation.
The fear can be so strong that it persists even in everyday situations such as going to a store, making a phone call, or going to an office to take care of an important matter.
2.Generalized Anxiety Disorder
This disorder is characterized by excessive fear of potential harm. It is characterized by almost constant fear of what might happen. It is often accompanied by muscle tension, irritability, and sleep disturbances. Generalized anxiety disorder significantly interferes with daily functioning, but to be diagnosed, symptoms must be very frequent for at least six months.
3.Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder
What characterizes this disorder is the repeated occurrence of obsessions. Obsessions are unwanted, disturbing, repetitive thoughts and images that are difficult to control and cause significant stress. Their content focuses on stress and concerns such as a constant feeling of dirt on hands or a constant need for order and symmetry.
4.Post-Traumatic Stress
Disorder Post-traumatic stress disorder occurs as a result of experiencing a traumatic event such as war or a traffic accident, as well as environmental disasters, and more. Symptoms may include constant tension, difficulty relaxing, scary nightmares, and repeated negative memories of the traumatic event.
A person with post-traumatic stress disorder, although it may appear to others that nothing is wrong, suffers greatly from repeated thoughts of the traumatic event.
ANXIETY DISORDERS – TREATMENT
The way in which an anxiety disorder is treated largely depends on how the anxiety is experienced, the patient’s expectations, and what is causing the anxiety. However, in the case of anxiety disorders, it is advisable to seek professional psychological help. Psychological therapy can not only help you regain balance, but also prevent the recurrence of anxiety. It is the most effective way to treat this type of disorder.
One of the effective forms of psychological therapy for anxiety disorders is called cognitive-behavioral psychotherapy (CBT), during which the patient learns to perceive dysfunctional patterns of thinking and behavior and subsequently learns how to change them.
Support, especially from family and loved ones, is extremely important in the treatment of anxiety disorders as well as other mental disorders. Therefore, if you see concerning symptoms in a loved one that may indicate the presence of anxiety disorders, show them that you notice it.
Let them know that they can rely on your help. Encourage them to seek help from a professional. Show them understanding and do not judge their behavior. Your support can truly work wonders.