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Anxiety

Anxiety

What is anxiety?

Anxiety is a normal emotion that everyone experiences from time to time. However, for some people, anxiety can become a chronic problem that interferes with their daily lives. Anxiety disorders are the most common mental illness in the United States, affecting 40 million adults age 18 and older (18.1%) each year.

What are the symptoms of anxiety?

The symptoms of anxiety can vary from person to person, but they may include:

  • Feeling restless or having trouble sitting still
  • Feeling tense or having muscle tension
  • Having a racing heart or feeling like your heart is pounding
  • Sweating
  • Having trouble breathing or feeling like you can't get enough air
  • Feeling lightheaded or dizzy
  • Having nausea or stomach problems
  • Having trouble concentrating or thinking clearly
  • Feeling tired or having trouble sleeping
  • Having trouble controlling worry
  • Having a fear of something specific, such as heights, public speaking, or enclosed spaces

What causes anxiety?

The exact cause of anxiety disorders is not fully understood, but it is thought to be a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Some common triggers for anxiety include:

  • Stressful life events, such as a job loss, a death in the family, or a serious illness
  • Major life changes, such as starting a new job, moving to a new city, or going to college
  • Medical conditions, such as thyroid problems or heart disease
  • Substance abuse
  • Certain medications

How is anxiety treated?

There are a variety of treatments available for anxiety disorders, including:

  • Therapy, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) or exposure therapy
  • Medications, such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) or benzodiazepines
  • Lifestyle changes, such as exercise, relaxation techniques, and getting enough sleep

What can I do to help myself manage anxiety?

There are a number of things you can do to help yourself manage anxiety, including:

  • Learn about anxiety and its symptoms.
  • Talk to your doctor about your anxiety.
  • Get involved in therapy or counseling.
  • Make lifestyle changes, such as exercise, relaxation techniques, and getting enough sleep.
  • Avoid caffeine, alcohol, and nicotine.
  • Find healthy ways to cope with stress.
  • Build a support network of friends and family.

When should I see a doctor about anxiety?

If you are experiencing symptoms of anxiety that are interfering with your daily life, it is important to see a doctor. A doctor can help you determine if you have an anxiety disorder and recommend the best treatment for you.

We hope this helps!