What Causes Anxiety

Every year, approximately four million Americans suffer from generalized anxiety disorder (GAD). Although more common in women than men, anxiety can strike anyone at any time, and typically begins in childhood or early adolescence.The symptoms of the disorder are clear - increased heart rate, dizziness, shortness of breath, muscle tension, headaches, and nausea - but what causes anxiety is slightly more complicated.

There is currently no one definitive cause of anxiety, and a variety of factors contribute to the likelihood of an individual developing the disorder or an attack. Genetics, brain chemistry, environmental and social stresses, drug use, and medications have all been linked to causing anxiety, whether individually or in a combination of factors.

Some research has suggested that a person's family history can increase their chances of developing anxiety, particularly social anxiety disorder. Scientists have discovered a variation in genes that are linked to shy and inhibited behavior in children, and introverted personalities in adults. This tendency to develop anxiety may be passed on from generation to generation through family genetics.

Perhaps more common than anxiety caused by genetics, external factors such as abuse, death of a loved one, divorce, job loss or changes, substance abuse, and stress all play a role in contributing to anxiety in individuals. These factors can cause anxiety in the form of excessive worrying about health, money, family, school, work, and relationships. In many cases, the worry associated with anxiety can interfere with a person's daily functioning and dominate their everyday life.

Many people affected by anxiety experience irritability, difficult concentrating, sweating, restlessness, ongoing tension, tiredness, trembling, difficulty sleeping, and an unrealistic view of their problems which caused the initial anxiety.

While the causes of anxiety are many, there are a variety of treatments for those who suffer, which often include a combination of medication and behavioral therapy. Psychiatrists and mental health professionals often treat anxiety with a class of drugs known as benzodiazepines, also known as tranquilizers which leave the individual feeling calm and relaxed. Other options include therapy sessions in which a patient learns to recognize the causes of anxiety in their own life and how to change thought patterns and behaviors that lead to feelings of anxiousness which interfere with social activities and relationships.

Simon Stenning writes and publishes tips on What Causes Anxiety. at the Panic Attack Focus Blog. Visit www.PanicAttackFocus.com to get free tips and conquer Anxiety and Panic Attack today.