Brief Introduction on Anxiety

Anxiety is a natural human reaction that involves the mind and the body. When we perceive danger or risk, the anxiety alarm gets activated itself. Anxiety comprises common disorders like nervousness, fear and worry. These disorders affect the behavior of a person. Anxiety is universal amongst all the people, but when it becomes severe and extreme, it is termed as an Anxiety disorder.

The occurrence of psychological disorders in the United States is about thirty percent, however only 1/3^rd of them obtain treatment. Anxiety disorder is the most widespread psychiatric disease in the world. According to the recent survey, it has been found that about eighteen percent of Americans are affected by some type of anxiety disorder. Sometimes, anxiety and depression go hand in hand.

Anxiety disorders are divided in 4 types:

• Panic anxiety disorder
• Generalized anxiety disorder
• Phobic disorder
• Obsessive-compulsive disorder

What causes Anxiety

The exact causes for the occurrence of anxiety disorders are uncertain, but these attacks can be caused due to the following factors:

1. Genetic factors

Anxiety can also be genetic. If any of your close relative suffers or has been suffering from anxiety, you are likely to suffer from it too. It is not mandatory that you will inherit it.

2. Environmental factors

• Childhood experiences: Childhood experiences can give rise to anxiety. Getting continuous criticism as a child, being over protected, high expectation of others, lack of affection, encouragement  and support gives rise to anxiety.
• Major life changes
• Adverse life events and major loss
• Cumulative stress

3. Psychological factors:  The psychological factors, which are responsible for causing anxiety in a person are as follows:

• Unhealthy beliefs
• Negative, irrational and unrealistic thinking patterns
• Focusing on fear and negativity
• Suppressed emotions
• Lack of positive attitude
• Lack of meaning of life
• Lack of self esteem

4. Behavioural factors

• Avoidance: Avoiding the situation where you have previously experienced anxiety. The more you avoid the situation, the more anxious you get if you land up in that situation.
• Lack of exercise: Muscle tension causes anxiety. Lack of regular exercise worsens the muscle tension and thus increases anxiety. To relief muscle tension exercise is the best solution.

5. Physical factors:

• Withdrawal from drugs: Withdrawal from drugs such as benzodiazepines, barbiturate drugs and alcohol can cause anxiety.
• Poor nutrition: Lack of vitamins such as vitamin B6, calcium or magnesium can cause anxiety.
• Recreational drugs: Caffeine, nicotine and some other drugs such as cocaine, marijuana and amphetamines also are known to give rise to anxiety.

6. Medical conditions

• Hypoglycemia:  Low blood sugar can at times cause anxiety
• Premenstrual syndrome: Some women experience anxiety right before their periods.
• Swelling of the ear: Swelling of the inner ear can leads to panic attacks.

Treatment for anxiety

Treatment for anxiety depends on the type of anxiety disorder a person is suffering from. The most common treatments include:

• Physiotherapy
• Cognitive Behavior therapy
• Relaxation techniques
• Medications such as antidepressants and Buspirone (anti anxiety medication)

Midwest centre of science and technology is an organization that deals with people suffering from anxiety (also stress and depression)