Anxiety often manifest as a feeling of fear, dread, and uneasiness. Individuals often complain of physical symptoms, including sweating, nausea, muscle tension, and rapid heartbeat. Sometimes, anxiety is just a part of a normal response to a stressful situation. For instance, an individual may feel anxious before taking a test or giving a speech. The anxiety may give the person a boost of energy to manage the task at hand. However, for those who are experiencing anxiety disorders, the fear is not temporary and can be overwhelming.
Anxiety disorders are conditions in which anxiety and worry do not go away and tend to get worse over time. The symptoms can interfere with daily activities such as job performance, schoolwork, and relationships. Factors that contribute to anxiety, include genetics, certain personality traits, brain biology and chemistry, stress, medical condition, and traumatic events.
Diagnosing an anxiety disorder involves a psychiatric evaluation, and sometimes individuals are referred to their healthcare provider for further medical testing if underlying physical health conditions are suspected as a contributing factor. A full history will be taken to determine the next steps.
Treatments typically involve psychotherapy and/or medication and assist individuals with the following:
- Learn ways to change the relationship to unhealthy thoughts
- Develop meditation and mindfulness skills to reduce anxiety
- Explore and heal childhood wounds that contribute to anxiety