Anxiety is a feeling of worry, nervousness, or unease about something with an uncertain outcome. It's normal to feel anxious sometimes, but for some people, anxiety becomes excessive, persistent, and disruptive to daily life. There are several types of anxiety disorders:
- Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) involves chronic, exaggerated worrying about everyday life. People with GAD may have anxiety and tension most days for at least 6 months.
- Social anxiety disorder causes intense fear of social situations and interactions. Someone with social anxiety may worry for days or weeks before an event where they have to interact with others.
- Panic disorder involves sudden, unexpected panic attacks, along with persistent concern about having another attack. Panic attacks often include heart palpitations, dizziness, shortness of breath, and feelings of unreality.
- Phobias are intense fears around specific objects, activities, or situations. Someone with a phobia tries to avoid what triggers the fear.
- Separation anxiety involves distress when separated from home or loved ones. It's common in children but can occur in adults too.
What causes anxiety? It's complicated, but likely involves a combination of factors:
- Brain chemistry: Neurotransmitters like serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine play a role in regulating mood and anxiety. Changes in their function may contribute.
- Genetics: Anxiety disorders can run in families, suggesting a genetic link. But specific genes have not been identified.
- Environmental stress: Trauma, abuse, financial strain, major life changes, or highly demanding careers can trigger anxiety in some.
- Medical factors: Thyroid problems, heart disease, diabetes, substance abuse, and withdrawal from medications can produce or worsen anxiety.
How is anxiety treated? A mix of self-help strategies, therapy, and medication is often most effective. Lifestyle changes like getting enough sleep, exercise, and social support can help lower anxiety. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) teaches coping skills and changing unhelpful thought patterns. Medications like SSRIs and SNRIs can relieve symptoms for anxiety disorders.
At Hormone Harmony Clinic, we offer comprehensive care for hormone-related anxiety and mood disorders. Our endocrinologists specialize in conditions like thyroid disorders and premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) that can worsen anxiety. We provide caring, individualized treatment plans that address hormone balance along with therapy and lifestyle changes for long-term anxiety relief. Contact us today to learn more and schedule a consultation.