Nervousness anxiety symptoms


Types, Causes, Symptoms & Treatments

Overview

What is an anxiety disorder?

An anxiety disorder is a type of mental health condition. If you have an anxiety disorder, you may respond to certain things and situations with fear and dread. You may also experience physical signs of anxiety, such as a pounding heart and sweating.

It’s normal to have some anxiety. You may feel anxious or nervous if you have to tackle a problem at work, go to an interview, take a test or make an important decision. And anxiety can even be beneficial. For example, anxiety helps us notice dangerous situations and focuses our attention, so we stay safe.

But an anxiety disorder goes beyond the regular nervousness and slight fear you may feel from time to time. An anxiety disorder happens when:

  • Anxiety interferes with your ability to function.
  • You often overreact when something triggers your emotions.
  • You can’t control your responses to situations.

Anxiety disorders can make it difficult to get through the day. Fortunately, there are several effective treatments for anxiety disorders.

Who is at risk for anxiety disorders?

A mix of genetic and environmental factors can raise a person’s risk for developing anxiety disorders. You may be at higher risk if you have or had:

  • Certain personality traits, such as shyness or behavioral inhibition — feeling uncomfortable with, and avoiding, unfamiliar people, situations or environments.
  • Stressful or traumatic events in early childhood or adulthood.
  • Family history of anxiety or other mental health conditions.
  • Certain physical conditions, including thyroid problems and heart arrhythmias (unusual heart rhythms).

Anxiety disorders occur more often in women. Researchers are still studying why that happens. It may come from women’s hormones, especially those that fluctuate throughout the month. The hormone testosterone may play a role, too — men have more, and it may ease anxiety. It’s also possible that women are less likely to seek treatment, so the anxiety worsens.

What are the types of anxiety disorders?

There are several types of anxiety disorders, including:

  • Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD).
  • Panic disorder.
  • Phobias.
  • Separation anxiety.

Other mental health conditions share features with anxiety disorders. These include post-traumatic stress disorder and obsessive-compulsive disorder.

What is generalized anxiety disorder (GAD)?

With GAD, you may feel extreme and unrealistic worry and tension — even if there’s nothing to trigger these feelings. Most days, you may worry a lot about various topics, including health, work, school and relationships. You may feel that the worry continues from one thing to the next.

Physical symptoms of GAD can include restlessness, difficulty concentrating and sleeping problems.

What is a panic disorder?

If you have a panic disorder, you get intense, sudden panic attacks. These attacks often feature stronger, more intense feelings than other types of anxiety disorders.

The feelings of terror may start suddenly and unexpectedly or they may come from a trigger, like facing a situation you dread. Panic attacks can resemble heart attacks. If there’s any chance you’re experiencing a heart attack, go to the emergency room. It’s better to err on the side of caution and have a healthcare professional check you.

During a panic attack, you may experience:

  • Sweating.
  • Heart palpitations (feeling like your heart is pounding).
  • Chest pain.
  • Feeling of choking, which can make you think you’re having a heart attack or “going crazy.”

Panic attacks are very upsetting. People with panic disorder often spend a lot of time worrying about the next panic attack. They also try to avoid situations that might trigger an attack.

What are phobias?

Phobias are an intense fear of certain situations or objects. Some of these fears may make sense, such as a fear of snakes. But often, the level of fear doesn’t match the situation.

Like with other anxiety disorders, you may spend a lot of time trying to avoid situations that may trigger the phobia.

A specific phobia, or a simple phobia, is an intense fear of a particular object or situation. It may cause you to avoid everyday situations. Some specific phobias include fear of:

  • Animals, such as spiders, dogs or snakes.
  • Blood.
  • Flying.
  • Heights.
  • Injections (shots).

Healthcare providers used to call this condition social phobia. You may have overwhelming worry and self-consciousness with daily social situations. You may worry about others judging you or you may be anxious that you’ll embarrass yourself or open yourself up to ridicule. People with social anxiety disorder may avoid social situations entirely.

Agoraphobia

If you have agoraphobia, you may have an intense fear of being overwhelmed or unable to get help. Usually, you have a fear of two or more of these environments:

  • Enclosed spaces.
  • Lines or crowds.
  • Open spaces.
  • Places outside your house.
  • Public transportation.

In severe situations, a person with agoraphobia may not leave the house at all. They’re so terrified of having a panic attack in public that they prefer to stay inside.

What is separation anxiety disorder?

This condition mostly happens to children or teens, who may worry about being away from their parents. Children with separation anxiety disorder may fear that their parents will be hurt in some way or not come back as promised. It happens a lot in preschoolers. But older children and adults who experience a stressful event may have separation anxiety disorder as well.

How common are anxiety disorders?

Anxiety disorders are the most common mental health conditions in the U.S. They affect about 40 million Americans. They happen to nearly 30% of adults at some point. Anxiety disorders most often begin in childhood, adolescence or early adulthood.

How do anxiety disorders affect children?

It’s normal for children to feel some amount of anxiety, worry or fear at certain points. For example, a child may feel scared of a thunderstorm or barking dog. A teenager might get anxious about an upcoming test or school dance.

But sometimes, children approach these situations with overwhelming dread or they can’t stop thinking about all the fears tied to one of these events. It may seem that none of your comforts help. These children often get “stuck” on their worries. They have a hard time doing their daily activities, like going to school, playing and falling asleep. They’re extremely reluctant to try something new.

When thinking about your child’s anxiety levels, “getting stuck” is key. It separates the regular worries of childhood from an anxiety disorder that needs professional help. If the anxiety or worry interferes with your child’s ability to function, it may be time to seek help

Symptoms and Causes

What causes anxiety disorders?

Anxiety disorders are like other forms of mental illness. They don’t come from personal weakness, character flaws or problems with upbringing. But researchers don’t know exactly what causes anxiety disorders. They suspect a combination of factors plays a role:

  • Chemical imbalance: Severe or long-lasting stress can change the chemical balance that controls your mood. Experiencing a lot of stress over a long period can lead to an anxiety disorder.
  • Environmental factors: Experiencing a trauma might trigger an anxiety disorder, especially in someone who has inherited a higher risk to start.
  • Heredity: Anxiety disorders tend to run in families. You may inherit them from one or both parents, like eye color.

What are the symptoms of an anxiety disorder?

Symptoms vary depending on the type of anxiety disorder you have. General symptoms of an anxiety disorder include:

Physical symptoms:

  • Cold or sweaty hands.
  • Dry mouth.
  • Heart palpitations.
  • Nausea.
  • Numbness or tingling in hands or feet.
  • Muscle tension.
  • Shortness of breath.

Mental symptoms:

  • Feeling panic, fear and uneasiness.
  • Nightmares.
  • Repeated thoughts or flashbacks of traumatic experiences.
  • Uncontrollable, obsessive thoughts.

Behavioral symptoms:

  • Inability to be still and calm.
  • Ritualistic behaviors, such as washing hands repeatedly.
  • Trouble sleeping.

How do I know if my child has an anxiety disorder?

Anxiety-related problems in children share four common features. The anxiety:

  • Is typically a fear or fixation that interferes with the ability to enjoy life, get through the day or complete tasks.
  • Is puzzling to both the child and parents.
  • Does not improve after logical explanations to address the worries.
  • Is treatable.

Diagnosis and Tests

How are anxiety disorders diagnosed?

If you have symptoms of an anxiety disorder, talk to your healthcare provider. They’ll start with a complete medical history and physical examination.

There are no lab tests or scans that can diagnose anxiety disorders. But your provider may run some of these tests to rule out physical conditions that may be causing symptoms.

Who can diagnose anxiety disorders?

If your provider finds no signs of physical illness, they may refer you to a psychiatrist or psychologist. These mental health professionals specialize in diagnosing and treating mental illnesses. They may use specially designed interview and assessment tools to figure out if you have an anxiety disorder. Typically, the provider bases a diagnosis on:

  • Your reported symptoms, including how intense they are and how long they last.
  • Discussion of how the symptoms interfere with your daily life.
  • The provider’s observation of your attitude and behavior.

Providers also consult the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5). The American Psychiatric Association publishes the DSM-5. It’s the standard reference manual for diagnosing mental illnesses.

Management and Treatment

How are anxiety disorders treated?

An anxiety disorder is like any other health problem that requires treatment. You can’t will it away. It’s not a matter of self-discipline or attitude. Researchers have made a lot of progress in the last few decades in treating mental health conditions. Your healthcare provider will tailor a treatment plan that works for you. Your plan may combine medication and psychotherapy.

How does medication treat anxiety disorders?

Medications can’t cure an anxiety disorder. But they can improve symptoms and help you function better. Medications for anxiety disorders often include:

  • Anti-anxiety medications, such as benzodiazepines, may decrease your anxiety, panic and worry. They work quickly, but you can build up a tolerance to them. That makes them less effective over time. Your healthcare provider may prescribe an anti-anxiety medication for the short-term, then taper you off or the provider may add an antidepressant to the mix.
  • Antidepressants can also help with anxiety disorders. They tweak how your brain uses certain chemicals to improve mood and reduce stress. Antidepressants may take some time to work, so be patient. If you feel like you’re ready to stop taking antidepressants, talk to your provider first.
  • Beta-blockers, usually used for high blood pressure, can help reduce some of the physical symptoms of anxiety disorders. They can relieve rapid heartbeat, shaking and trembling.

Your healthcare provider will work with you to find the right medication combination and dosage. Don’t change the dose without consulting your provider. They’ll monitor you to make sure the medicines are working without causing negative side effects.

How does psychotherapy treat anxiety disorders?

Psychotherapy, or counseling, helps you deal with your emotional response to the illness. A mental health provider talks through strategies to help you better understand and manage the disorder. Approaches include:

  • Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is the most common type of psychotherapy used with anxiety disorders. CBT for anxiety teaches you to recognize thought patterns and behaviors that lead to troublesome feelings. You then work on changing them.
  • Exposure therapy focuses on dealing with the fears behind the anxiety disorder. It helps you engage with activities or situations you may have been avoiding. Your provider may also use relaxation exercises and imagery with exposure therapy.

What happens if I don’t get treatment for my child with an anxiety disorder?

Getting your child help for an anxiety disorder can improve their development and self-esteem. But untreated anxiety disorders can harm:

  • Family relationships.
  • School performance.
  • Social functioning.

Your child may also end up with more serious mental and physical health problems. Fortunately, there are several treatments for anxiety disorders. The right treatment can help your child manage their symptoms and feel their best.

Prevention

Can anxiety disorders be prevented?

You can’t prevent anxiety disorders. But you can take steps to control or reduce your symptoms:

  • Check out medications: Talk to a healthcare provider or pharmacist before taking over-the-counter medications or herbal remedies. Some of these contain chemicals that may make anxiety symptoms worse.
  • Limit caffeine: Stop or limit how much caffeine you consume, including coffee, tea, cola and chocolate.
  • Live a healthy lifestyle: Exercise regularly and eat a healthy, balanced diet.
  • Seek help: Get counseling and support if you experienced a traumatic or disturbing event. Doing so can help prevent anxiety and other unpleasant feelings from disrupting your life.

Outlook / Prognosis

What’s the outlook for people with anxiety disorders?

Anxiety disorders can often go undiagnosed and untreated. Fortunately, treatment can help. The right treatment can help improve your quality of life, relationships and productivity. It can also support your overall well-being.

You don’t need to live with constant worry and fear. If you notice symptoms of an anxiety disorder, talk to your healthcare provider. It’s best to get diagnosed and treated as soon as possible. Doing so can limit the problems that anxiety disorders can cause. Often, a combination of medications and counseling for anxiety can help you feel your best.

Living With

How can I best cope with an anxiety disorder?

There are several steps you can take to cope with anxiety disorder symptoms. These strategies can also make your treatment more effective:

  • Explore stress management: Learn ways to manage stress, such as through meditation.
  • Join support groups: These groups are available in-person and online. They encourage people with anxiety disorders to share their experiences and coping strategies.
  • Get educated: Learn about the specific type of anxiety disorder you have so you feel more in control. Help friends and loved ones understand the disorder as well so they can support you.
  • Limit or avoid caffeine: Many people with anxiety disorder find that caffeine can worsen their symptoms.
  • Talk to your healthcare provider: Your provider is your partner in your care. If you feel like treatment isn’t working or have questions about your medication, contact your provider. Together, you can figure out how to best move forward.

Some people feel the effects of stress in their stomachs. People with IBS have uncomfortable problems with digestion, including stomach pain, constipation and diarrhea. They also frequently have anxiety and depression, which can make symptoms worse.

The connection between IBS and anxiety comes from the nervous system partly controlling the colon. The nervous system’s response to stress may affect the stomach. Among people who get treated for IBS, anywhere from 50% to 90% may also have an anxiety disorder or depression. Treatment for IBS may include stress management and psychotherapy to relieve symptoms.

When should I go to the emergency room for an anxiety disorder?

Symptoms of an anxiety disorder can resemble symptoms of a heart attack or another health emergency. If you’re experiencing an anxiety attack for the first time, or you’re concerned in any way about your health, call 911 or head to the nearest ER. A healthcare provider will check you for serious or life-threatening conditions.

If you’re having an anxiety attack and unsure whether you should head to an ER or not, it’s better to go. Healthcare professionals can make sure you’re OK and give you any necessary treatment.

What else should I ask my healthcare provider?

If you have an anxiety disorder, ask your provider:

  • What’s the best treatment for me?
  • Do I need medication? What type?
  • How long should I take medication?
  • What type of psychotherapy will work best?
  • What else can I do to manage my symptoms?
  • What other conditions am I at risk for?

A note from Cleveland Clinic

An anxiety disorder can make it difficult to get through your day. Anxiety disorder symptoms include feelings of nervousness, panic and fear. You may also have physical symptoms such as sweating and a rapid heartbeat. But you don’t need to live like this. Several effective anxiety disorder treatments are available. Talk to your healthcare provider to figure out your diagnosis and the best treatment plan. Often, treatment combines medications and therapy. Anti-anxiety medications and antidepressants, together with CBT, can help you feel your best.

Types, Causes, Symptoms & Treatments

Overview

What is an anxiety disorder?

An anxiety disorder is a type of mental health condition. If you have an anxiety disorder, you may respond to certain things and situations with fear and dread. You may also experience physical signs of anxiety, such as a pounding heart and sweating.

It’s normal to have some anxiety. You may feel anxious or nervous if you have to tackle a problem at work, go to an interview, take a test or make an important decision. And anxiety can even be beneficial. For example, anxiety helps us notice dangerous situations and focuses our attention, so we stay safe.

But an anxiety disorder goes beyond the regular nervousness and slight fear you may feel from time to time. An anxiety disorder happens when:

  • Anxiety interferes with your ability to function.
  • You often overreact when something triggers your emotions.
  • You can’t control your responses to situations.

Anxiety disorders can make it difficult to get through the day. Fortunately, there are several effective treatments for anxiety disorders.

Who is at risk for anxiety disorders?

A mix of genetic and environmental factors can raise a person’s risk for developing anxiety disorders. You may be at higher risk if you have or had:

  • Certain personality traits, such as shyness or behavioral inhibition — feeling uncomfortable with, and avoiding, unfamiliar people, situations or environments.
  • Stressful or traumatic events in early childhood or adulthood.
  • Family history of anxiety or other mental health conditions.
  • Certain physical conditions, including thyroid problems and heart arrhythmias (unusual heart rhythms).

Anxiety disorders occur more often in women. Researchers are still studying why that happens. It may come from women’s hormones, especially those that fluctuate throughout the month. The hormone testosterone may play a role, too — men have more, and it may ease anxiety. It’s also possible that women are less likely to seek treatment, so the anxiety worsens.

What are the types of anxiety disorders?

There are several types of anxiety disorders, including:

  • Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD).
  • Panic disorder.
  • Phobias.
  • Separation anxiety.

Other mental health conditions share features with anxiety disorders. These include post-traumatic stress disorder and obsessive-compulsive disorder.

What is generalized anxiety disorder (GAD)?

With GAD, you may feel extreme and unrealistic worry and tension — even if there’s nothing to trigger these feelings. Most days, you may worry a lot about various topics, including health, work, school and relationships. You may feel that the worry continues from one thing to the next.

Physical symptoms of GAD can include restlessness, difficulty concentrating and sleeping problems.

What is a panic disorder?

If you have a panic disorder, you get intense, sudden panic attacks. These attacks often feature stronger, more intense feelings than other types of anxiety disorders.

The feelings of terror may start suddenly and unexpectedly or they may come from a trigger, like facing a situation you dread. Panic attacks can resemble heart attacks. If there’s any chance you’re experiencing a heart attack, go to the emergency room. It’s better to err on the side of caution and have a healthcare professional check you.

During a panic attack, you may experience:

  • Sweating.
  • Heart palpitations (feeling like your heart is pounding).
  • Chest pain.
  • Feeling of choking, which can make you think you’re having a heart attack or “going crazy.

Panic attacks are very upsetting. People with panic disorder often spend a lot of time worrying about the next panic attack. They also try to avoid situations that might trigger an attack.

What are phobias?

Phobias are an intense fear of certain situations or objects. Some of these fears may make sense, such as a fear of snakes. But often, the level of fear doesn’t match the situation.

Like with other anxiety disorders, you may spend a lot of time trying to avoid situations that may trigger the phobia.

A specific phobia, or a simple phobia, is an intense fear of a particular object or situation. It may cause you to avoid everyday situations. Some specific phobias include fear of:

  • Animals, such as spiders, dogs or snakes.
  • Blood.
  • Flying.
  • Heights.
  • Injections (shots).

Healthcare providers used to call this condition social phobia. You may have overwhelming worry and self-consciousness with daily social situations. You may worry about others judging you or you may be anxious that you’ll embarrass yourself or open yourself up to ridicule. People with social anxiety disorder may avoid social situations entirely.

Agoraphobia

If you have agoraphobia, you may have an intense fear of being overwhelmed or unable to get help. Usually, you have a fear of two or more of these environments:

  • Enclosed spaces.
  • Lines or crowds.
  • Open spaces.
  • Places outside your house.
  • Public transportation.

In severe situations, a person with agoraphobia may not leave the house at all. They’re so terrified of having a panic attack in public that they prefer to stay inside.

What is separation anxiety disorder?

This condition mostly happens to children or teens, who may worry about being away from their parents. Children with separation anxiety disorder may fear that their parents will be hurt in some way or not come back as promised. It happens a lot in preschoolers. But older children and adults who experience a stressful event may have separation anxiety disorder as well.

How common are anxiety disorders?

Anxiety disorders are the most common mental health conditions in the U.S. They affect about 40 million Americans. They happen to nearly 30% of adults at some point. Anxiety disorders most often begin in childhood, adolescence or early adulthood.

How do anxiety disorders affect children?

It’s normal for children to feel some amount of anxiety, worry or fear at certain points. For example, a child may feel scared of a thunderstorm or barking dog. A teenager might get anxious about an upcoming test or school dance.

But sometimes, children approach these situations with overwhelming dread or they can’t stop thinking about all the fears tied to one of these events. It may seem that none of your comforts help. These children often get “stuck” on their worries. They have a hard time doing their daily activities, like going to school, playing and falling asleep. They’re extremely reluctant to try something new.

When thinking about your child’s anxiety levels, “getting stuck” is key. It separates the regular worries of childhood from an anxiety disorder that needs professional help. If the anxiety or worry interferes with your child’s ability to function, it may be time to seek help

Symptoms and Causes

What causes anxiety disorders?

Anxiety disorders are like other forms of mental illness. They don’t come from personal weakness, character flaws or problems with upbringing. But researchers don’t know exactly what causes anxiety disorders. They suspect a combination of factors plays a role:

  • Chemical imbalance: Severe or long-lasting stress can change the chemical balance that controls your mood. Experiencing a lot of stress over a long period can lead to an anxiety disorder.
  • Environmental factors: Experiencing a trauma might trigger an anxiety disorder, especially in someone who has inherited a higher risk to start.
  • Heredity: Anxiety disorders tend to run in families. You may inherit them from one or both parents, like eye color.

What are the symptoms of an anxiety disorder?

Symptoms vary depending on the type of anxiety disorder you have. General symptoms of an anxiety disorder include:

Physical symptoms:

  • Cold or sweaty hands.
  • Dry mouth.
  • Heart palpitations.
  • Nausea.
  • Numbness or tingling in hands or feet.
  • Muscle tension.
  • Shortness of breath.

Mental symptoms:

  • Feeling panic, fear and uneasiness.
  • Nightmares.
  • Repeated thoughts or flashbacks of traumatic experiences.
  • Uncontrollable, obsessive thoughts.

Behavioral symptoms:

  • Inability to be still and calm.
  • Ritualistic behaviors, such as washing hands repeatedly.
  • Trouble sleeping.

How do I know if my child has an anxiety disorder?

Anxiety-related problems in children share four common features. The anxiety:

  • Is typically a fear or fixation that interferes with the ability to enjoy life, get through the day or complete tasks.
  • Is puzzling to both the child and parents.
  • Does not improve after logical explanations to address the worries.
  • Is treatable.

Diagnosis and Tests

How are anxiety disorders diagnosed?

If you have symptoms of an anxiety disorder, talk to your healthcare provider. They’ll start with a complete medical history and physical examination.

There are no lab tests or scans that can diagnose anxiety disorders. But your provider may run some of these tests to rule out physical conditions that may be causing symptoms.

Who can diagnose anxiety disorders?

If your provider finds no signs of physical illness, they may refer you to a psychiatrist or psychologist. These mental health professionals specialize in diagnosing and treating mental illnesses. They may use specially designed interview and assessment tools to figure out if you have an anxiety disorder. Typically, the provider bases a diagnosis on:

  • Your reported symptoms, including how intense they are and how long they last.
  • Discussion of how the symptoms interfere with your daily life.
  • The provider’s observation of your attitude and behavior.

Providers also consult the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5). The American Psychiatric Association publishes the DSM-5. It’s the standard reference manual for diagnosing mental illnesses.

Management and Treatment

How are anxiety disorders treated?

An anxiety disorder is like any other health problem that requires treatment. You can’t will it away. It’s not a matter of self-discipline or attitude. Researchers have made a lot of progress in the last few decades in treating mental health conditions. Your healthcare provider will tailor a treatment plan that works for you. Your plan may combine medication and psychotherapy.

How does medication treat anxiety disorders?

Medications can’t cure an anxiety disorder. But they can improve symptoms and help you function better. Medications for anxiety disorders often include:

  • Anti-anxiety medications, such as benzodiazepines, may decrease your anxiety, panic and worry. They work quickly, but you can build up a tolerance to them. That makes them less effective over time. Your healthcare provider may prescribe an anti-anxiety medication for the short-term, then taper you off or the provider may add an antidepressant to the mix.
  • Antidepressants can also help with anxiety disorders. They tweak how your brain uses certain chemicals to improve mood and reduce stress. Antidepressants may take some time to work, so be patient. If you feel like you’re ready to stop taking antidepressants, talk to your provider first.
  • Beta-blockers, usually used for high blood pressure, can help reduce some of the physical symptoms of anxiety disorders. They can relieve rapid heartbeat, shaking and trembling.

Your healthcare provider will work with you to find the right medication combination and dosage. Don’t change the dose without consulting your provider. They’ll monitor you to make sure the medicines are working without causing negative side effects.

How does psychotherapy treat anxiety disorders?

Psychotherapy, or counseling, helps you deal with your emotional response to the illness. A mental health provider talks through strategies to help you better understand and manage the disorder. Approaches include:

  • Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is the most common type of psychotherapy used with anxiety disorders. CBT for anxiety teaches you to recognize thought patterns and behaviors that lead to troublesome feelings. You then work on changing them.
  • Exposure therapy focuses on dealing with the fears behind the anxiety disorder. It helps you engage with activities or situations you may have been avoiding. Your provider may also use relaxation exercises and imagery with exposure therapy.

What happens if I don’t get treatment for my child with an anxiety disorder?

Getting your child help for an anxiety disorder can improve their development and self-esteem. But untreated anxiety disorders can harm:

  • Family relationships.
  • School performance.
  • Social functioning.

Your child may also end up with more serious mental and physical health problems. Fortunately, there are several treatments for anxiety disorders. The right treatment can help your child manage their symptoms and feel their best.

Prevention

Can anxiety disorders be prevented?

You can’t prevent anxiety disorders. But you can take steps to control or reduce your symptoms:

  • Check out medications: Talk to a healthcare provider or pharmacist before taking over-the-counter medications or herbal remedies. Some of these contain chemicals that may make anxiety symptoms worse.
  • Limit caffeine: Stop or limit how much caffeine you consume, including coffee, tea, cola and chocolate.
  • Live a healthy lifestyle: Exercise regularly and eat a healthy, balanced diet.
  • Seek help: Get counseling and support if you experienced a traumatic or disturbing event. Doing so can help prevent anxiety and other unpleasant feelings from disrupting your life.

Outlook / Prognosis

What’s the outlook for people with anxiety disorders?

Anxiety disorders can often go undiagnosed and untreated. Fortunately, treatment can help. The right treatment can help improve your quality of life, relationships and productivity. It can also support your overall well-being.

You don’t need to live with constant worry and fear. If you notice symptoms of an anxiety disorder, talk to your healthcare provider. It’s best to get diagnosed and treated as soon as possible. Doing so can limit the problems that anxiety disorders can cause. Often, a combination of medications and counseling for anxiety can help you feel your best.

Living With

How can I best cope with an anxiety disorder?

There are several steps you can take to cope with anxiety disorder symptoms. These strategies can also make your treatment more effective:

  • Explore stress management: Learn ways to manage stress, such as through meditation.
  • Join support groups: These groups are available in-person and online. They encourage people with anxiety disorders to share their experiences and coping strategies.
  • Get educated: Learn about the specific type of anxiety disorder you have so you feel more in control. Help friends and loved ones understand the disorder as well so they can support you.
  • Limit or avoid caffeine: Many people with anxiety disorder find that caffeine can worsen their symptoms.
  • Talk to your healthcare provider: Your provider is your partner in your care. If you feel like treatment isn’t working or have questions about your medication, contact your provider. Together, you can figure out how to best move forward.

Some people feel the effects of stress in their stomachs. People with IBS have uncomfortable problems with digestion, including stomach pain, constipation and diarrhea. They also frequently have anxiety and depression, which can make symptoms worse.

The connection between IBS and anxiety comes from the nervous system partly controlling the colon. The nervous system’s response to stress may affect the stomach. Among people who get treated for IBS, anywhere from 50% to 90% may also have an anxiety disorder or depression. Treatment for IBS may include stress management and psychotherapy to relieve symptoms.

When should I go to the emergency room for an anxiety disorder?

Symptoms of an anxiety disorder can resemble symptoms of a heart attack or another health emergency. If you’re experiencing an anxiety attack for the first time, or you’re concerned in any way about your health, call 911 or head to the nearest ER. A healthcare provider will check you for serious or life-threatening conditions.

If you’re having an anxiety attack and unsure whether you should head to an ER or not, it’s better to go. Healthcare professionals can make sure you’re OK and give you any necessary treatment.

What else should I ask my healthcare provider?

If you have an anxiety disorder, ask your provider:

  • What’s the best treatment for me?
  • Do I need medication? What type?
  • How long should I take medication?
  • What type of psychotherapy will work best?
  • What else can I do to manage my symptoms?
  • What other conditions am I at risk for?

A note from Cleveland Clinic

An anxiety disorder can make it difficult to get through your day. Anxiety disorder symptoms include feelings of nervousness, panic and fear. You may also have physical symptoms such as sweating and a rapid heartbeat. But you don’t need to live like this. Several effective anxiety disorder treatments are available. Talk to your healthcare provider to figure out your diagnosis and the best treatment plan. Often, treatment combines medications and therapy. Anti-anxiety medications and antidepressants, together with CBT, can help you feel your best.

Anxiety disorder - causes, symptoms and treatments: signs of increased anxiety

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Anxiety disorder - causes, symptoms and treatments

Fear and excitement are experienced by all people, but an unreasonable and persistent feeling of anxiety in a person indicates the presence of anxiety disorder syndrome (AD). Anxiety arises due to the influence of various factors: life difficulties, problems in a career, self-determination, etc. These types of experiences are common to everyone and are not considered pathological. But if increased anxiety is not associated with specific objects or situations, then this is a signal of a mental failure. nine0003

A disease of this type has no restrictions on age, sex, social status. Anxiety disorders are a group of neuroses with an increased sense of fear for no reason. Strong excitement that occurs in adults for relatively small reasons, experts divide into two large categories:

  • Emotional experiences. A sick person is tormented by inexplicable anxiety, often causeless fear causes constant tension in the body, nervousness. The polar state is depression, complete emptiness. A person in an emotional disorder cannot stay in one place, it is difficult for him to concentrate. He is waiting for something terrible and inevitable, which is about to happen. A clear sign of an excited state is frequent and full breathing, the chest moves intensely, as after running. nine0026
  • Physical experiences. The feeling of anxiety and restlessness is manifested in the form of increased sweating, frequent heartbeat. A sick person may develop heaviness in the chest, shortness of breath, tremor in the arms and legs. Frequent headaches, loss of appetite and sleep. Unreasonable anxiety causes tension in all muscles in the body, fatigue appears even with little physical activity. Often there are malfunctions in the digestive tract, excretory system - diarrhea, constipation, frequent urination.
  • nine0029

    The main causes of TR in adults are genetic and environmental factors. Most often this disease affects people with mental illness, frequent depression, with a history of abuse in the family or the use of narcotic/psychotropic substances.

    Causes of the disease

    There is no clear understanding of the cause of this disease. Pathology can occur as a reaction of the body to somatic or mental factors, develop due to brain injuries or endocrine disorders. Groundless fear is often a side effect of taking strong drugs, narcotic or psychotropic substances. nine0003

    There are four theories of the emergence of anxiety disorders:

    • Psychological. Restless syndrome as a response of the psyche to the presence in a person of a forbidden, impossible need in a familiar environment. The body and psyche block the actions of a person that have an intimate or aggressive background. Such a subconscious barrier leads to neurosis, as the body restrains this unacceptable need.
    • Cognitive. Constant depression, unrest are caused by mental images of the patient himself. Usually the patient's thoughts are extremely irrational, impractical, out of touch with reality. nine0026
    • Behavioral or behavioral. Strong anxiety is a reflex reaction of the body to frightening or painful stimuli. For the most part, this is a normal reaction of a healthy body. Pathological symptoms occur when the stimulus is no longer there, but the person's anxiety remains.
    • The fourth theory is biological. Pathological conditions are caused by the failure of metabolic processes in the brain. Studies have shown that an increase in the number of neurotransmitters leads to a state of increased excitement. nine0026

    The feeling of excessive anxiety is a pathology, but in which a person is aware of his problems. This disease does not change the personality of the patient.

    Types and symptoms of increased anxiety

    There are several types of pathological manifestations with specific symptoms:

    • Generalized TR. A person manifests neuroses that are not associated with a specific object or situation. The most persistent symptoms are hyperactivity, a tendency to tearfulness, a tense state of the face and body (eyebrows are lowered, there is a slight tremor in the limbs, the skin is pale). nine0026
    • Panic attacks. In adults, a mental disorder is accompanied by periodic panic attacks "out of the blue." A person cannot control their manifestations. However, the patient anticipates the attack well and can avoid a situation leading to an exacerbation. Symptoms - excessive emotional intensity before a panic attack, increased sweating, rapid pulse, agitated state.
    • Obsessive-compulsive. The disease is accompanied by depression and the appearance of obsessive thoughts that bring discomfort. The patient is in constant experience of some situations from the past or a fictional world. Symptoms - inadequate behavior in a normal environment. For example, frequent washing of hands, cleaning the house to the point of exhaustion, etc. nine0026
    • Phobias are fear brought to an extreme point of intensity. The symptoms are the same as with a normal fright, only multiplied tenfold. A person can be afraid of both completely dangerous and safe things. The patient tries to avoid contact with the object of fear, which leads to an exacerbation of the phobia. Such people have increased sweating, the chest breathes extremely intensively, inadequate behavior.
    • Social. Diseases are psychosomatic in nature. The patient experiences increased anxiety to receive a negative assessment of other people in society. Social phobes are timid, shy, withdrawn, often gloomy due to the lack of joy in communicating with others. They suffer from apathy and depression. nine0026
    • Post-traumatic. Excitement without an irritating stimulus can occur against the background of an experienced situation, trauma, or shock. A complex type of the course of the disease, since the anxiety syndrome manifests itself regularly and does not weaken. The help of a psychotherapist is required, who will prescribe treatment and prescribe means to calm the nervous system.

    Complications of the disease

    Without medical help, anxiety disorder causes a number of socio-psychological complications. This is self-isolation from society, low self-esteem, exhaustion of the body on the mental and physical planes, the development of depressive states and other manifestations. The patient also experiences social complications. The most common are financial difficulties, alcoholism, loss of interest in work, career, sex. Constant stress and dissatisfaction with oneself and life reduces the body's immunity. The patient experiences severe headaches, allergic reactions, muscles are in constant tone. nine0003

    All these manifestations lead to even worse consequences for a person. The body malfunctions, serious ailments develop: cancer, diseases of the cardiovascular and endocrine systems, ulcers and others.

    Diagnosis and treatment

    The study of the signs of this disease in adults and adolescents made it possible to test the methods of psychotherapeutic and drug restoration of the health of the human nervous system. Specialists use the following methods for diagnosing neurotic manifestations of fear:

    • Consulting assistance of a psychologist or psychiatrist to identify specific symptoms, obtain data on the interests, lifestyle, motives of the patient.
    • Psychodiagnostics, testing - these methods allow you to identify pathological signs of fear and related disorders of the nervous system.
    • Observation of the patient and analysis of his behavior in life, society, in relationships with loved ones and others.

    Unreasonable manifestations of excitement are within the sphere of interests of a psychologist and psychotherapist. Before visiting the specialist's office, the patient is advised to formulate his problems in detail, talk about taking psychoactive drugs, the timing and duration of the previous treatment. Hormones of joy help in the fight against anxious feelings, so professional doctors advise stocking up on positive. nine0003

    The treatment of a person with TR is based on an integrated approach. The recovery course includes taking psychoactive medications (antidepressants), psychotherapy, and correcting the patient's lifestyle. Psychiatric care includes group, individual, family methods of patient recovery. Therapy helps to change the patient's attitude to groundless neurosis.

    It is also allowed to use traditional medicine - sedative infusions, decoctions of melissa, chamomile herbs. They give a general relaxing effect, temporarily reduce the active phase of the manifestation of the disease. nine0003

    Anxiety prevention

    You can try to deal with AD at an early stage at home. But, if preventive methods did not help, we recommend that you immediately contact a medical institution. If you feel excitement approaching for no reason, do the following:

    • Relax as much as possible, concentrate on your body. Mentally or aloud list your concerns. Do not run away from them, but accept them.
    • Take a few deep breaths, relax your chest. Breathe calmly. A few cycles will help you bounce back. nine0026
    • Set aside time for proper sleep and rest, lack of sleep or chronic fatigue are the first signs of TR.
    • Protect yourself from negative information, do not watch the news, do not read newspapers. Go to the movies or turn on a comedy, a romantic story at home. Charge yourself with positivity.
    • Be aware of the fact that a black stripe in life is always followed by a white one. Problems do not last forever, learn to accept life in dynamics.

    Specialists advise patients to develop a resource state in which they feel an influx of energy, their own strength. Feeling the sufficiency of internal resources helps to overcome all problems. Each person has a personal source of strength. Someone likes walking in the forest, park, someone likes to communicate with loved ones, play with children, go in for sports, etc. The secret to treating TR is finding time to do things you love. nine0003

    treatment, how to get rid of feelings of anxiety, how to deal with anxiety for no reason

    Anxiety is a negatively colored mood with feelings of worry, tension, and fear. In moderation, such emotions are useful: they help to mobilize forces and find a way out of extreme situations. But there must be grounds for concern, and normally it lasts a limited period of time.

    If a person constantly experiences a feeling of anxiety and anxiety for no reason, this may indicate the presence of a mental disorder. In the absence of help, constant tension wears out the nervous system and the body as a whole, which leads to a breakdown in adaptation mechanisms and the development of chronic diseases. nine0003

    If you notice that you cannot relax for a long time, then you should think about visiting a specialist.

    In pathological cases, the state of anxiety and restlessness without a cause manifests itself both mentally and physically.

    Mental symptoms:

    • constant feeling of fear and excitement for no reason,
    • poor concentration and attention,
    • sleep disorders,
    • emotional lability, irritability, tearfulness,
    • inability to relax and fully engage in daily activities or communication,
    • the need to reassure others that everything is okay. At the same time, words of support do not bring relief.

    Physical symptoms:

    • rapid breathing and heartbeat,
    • headaches, pain in the abdomen and in the region of the heart,
    • excessive sweating,
    • eating disorders: increased or loss of appetite,
    • weakness,
    • shivering, chills,
    • stool disorders: frequent urge, constipation,
    • feeling short of breath,
    • nausea,
    • muscle spasms and pain.

    Unreasonable anxiety and anxiety increase or smooth out from time to time. Exacerbations often accompany stress: conflicts, important events, illness. Normally, a person recovers quickly after the situation is resolved, but when upset, negative emotions do not go away. nine0003

    The intensity of anxiety varies from mild to severe. The extreme is panic. If you ignore an anxiety state for a long time for no reason, then panic attacks can join it. They overtake unexpectedly and sometimes without a good enough reason, but after this episode, a person begins to avoid situations similar to the one in which it happened: public transport, an elevator, or just a crowd of people. This greatly reduces the quality of life and can lead to social isolation. nine0003

    Causes of causeless anxiety and anxiety

    The occurrence of anxiety disorder is influenced by heredity. It has been found that certain brain structures and features of biological processes play an important role in the emergence of fear and anxiety. Personal characteristics, somatic health problems, lifestyle and various types of addictions also matter. Sometimes there is no cause for causeless anxiety and worry. Negative feelings usually have a trigger - an event or thought that causes an anxious response. However, most people are not aware of their triggers and believe that their emotions are groundless. In this case, only a specialist will help to understand why excitement arises for no reason. nine0003

    There are a number of diseases, the symptoms of which are constant anxiety. With causeless fear and anxiety, the reasons may be as follows:

    • Generalized Anxiety Disorder: Constant nervousness and worry about small things that are usually visible to others and last 6 or more months. It starts in adolescence and intensifies with age.
    • Obsessive-compulsive disorder: obsessive thoughts and fears that are accompanied by obsessive actions that do not bring relief. Obsessive-compulsive disorder is distinguished - a person is indomitably haunted by memories that reproduce a traumatic situation. nine0026
    • Phobias: irrational fear of any, even mundane, things. Accompanied by uncontrolled panic and physical manifestations.
    • Panic attack is a painful and sudden attack of panic, which is accompanied by a fear of death and vivid somatic symptoms. The regular occurrence of panic attacks means the development of a panic disorder.
    • Post-traumatic stress disorder: occurs after a severe traumatic situation and is accompanied by high levels of anxiety, avoidance and flashbacks. nine0026

    These are the most common examples, but pathological anxiety can be a symptom of other disorders or the result of a failed stress management. If you want to understand why there is a feeling of anxiety for no reason, you should consult a doctor. Without clarifying the main factor and working on it, it is impossible to restore health and peace of mind.

    What to do with causeless anxiety and anxiety

    It is difficult to live in constant stress. If you experience causeless anxiety and fear of what to do, the following list will tell you: nine0003

    1. Talk to someone you trust. This could be a relative, a close friend, a therapist, or a helpline employee. People are social creatures, so communication is a good way to relieve internal tension.
    2. Find a way to calm down quickly. There is not always a person with whom you can share. Therefore, it is important to find a suitable method that will help you relax: breathing techniques, soothing music, aromatherapy, self-massage, and more. If you cannot independently choose a technique that quickly helps with anxiety for no reason, a specialist will tell you what to do. nine0026
    3. Add physical activity to your life. It is a natural and effective remedy for anxiety. Moderate sport relieves stress, lowers stress hormones, and strengthens the nervous system. Get at least 30 minutes of physical exercise a day.
    4. Normalization of lifestyle. Get enough sleep, eat well, give up bad habits. This stabilizes physical performance and neurotransmitter levels, which helps maintain emotional balance. nine0026
    5. Start keeping a diary. Notes help identify patterns of anxiety flare-ups, understand the causes, and notice early signs of their occurrence. Also, thanks to this, you will begin to focus more on positive events that you might not have noticed before.

    With excitement for no reason, everyone who regularly encounters this wants to know what to do. There is no universal method, however, the 5 steps listed above are recommended for every person with increased anxiety. This may be enough to alleviate symptoms. But if self-help techniques do not give the desired effect, then with a regularly occurring feeling of anxiety for no reason, you need to find out from a specialist what to do. nine0003

    Treatment of causeless feelings of anxiety and restlessness

    Regardless of the cause of pathological anxiety, professional help is the only complete method to eliminate the problem. If you have constant excitement and anxiety for no reason, you can quickly and effectively learn from a psychiatrist or psychotherapist how to get rid of this condition.

    Due to the diversity of anxiety disorders, their therapy must be adapted to the individual clinical picture and diagnosis. Therefore, only a highly qualified specialist who has experience working with different types of anxiety conditions can tell you how to get rid of an anxiety state for no reason. For example, the therapy algorithm for a patient with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is different from the help for panic attacks. nine0003

    For a state of anxiety and anxiety without a cause, treatment includes the following approaches:

    1. Psychotherapy. The most promising direction, which not only eliminates the symptom, but identifies the cause and fights it. Therapy teaches when feeling anxiety for no reason, how to get rid of acute attacks of anxiety, relax, look at life situations differently. The doctor will help to uncover the main causes of your fears and work them out. The patient receives the tools to overcome anxiety and uses them successfully. Cognitive-behavioral therapy is usually used: in the course of treatment, the patient encounters an object of concern and gradually gains confidence that he can control the situation. nine0026
    2. Medical therapy. Depending on the type of anxiety and the presence of associated mental or physical health problems, antidepressants, sedatives, sleeping pills, and other drugs may be prescribed. When anxiety is felt without a cause, drug treatment will alleviate the symptoms and improve the quality of life of the patient during his psychotherapeutic work on the underlying cause. Uncontrolled medication leads to dangerous side effects and withdrawal syndrome, so they can only be used according to the individual course prescribed by the doctor. nine0003

    It is recommended to use a combination of psychotherapeutic and drug treatment, but sometimes only the first one is enough.

    You should not put off visiting a doctor if you feel that experiences are preventing you from living.


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