Symptoms and Causes of Anxiety Disorders

Anxiety is a tendency for individuals to experience heightened worry. People may fear significant events, moments of responsibility, and so on. If this state arises without an apparent reason, medical assistance is required. Anxiety manifests in a range of conditions collectively referred to as pathological anxiety states.

The main causes of this condition include:

• Various emotional experiences

• Family atmosphere and upbringing 

• Post-traumatic stress

• Internal conflict (self-esteem issues, dissatisfaction)

Physiological symptoms include:

• difficulty breathing;

• Increased pulse

• Chest tightness

• Dizziness

• general weakness;

• Increased sweating

• Nausea

• Intense anxiety and emotional tension before panic attacks

• Frequent mood swings

• Numbness in limbs

Psychological characteristics involve:

• Disorientation

• Feelings of fear

Anxiety disorders can lead to the development of other conditions such as:

• Depression

• Dependency on sedatives or alcohol

• Insomnia

• Gastrointestinal disorders

• Headaches

• Social isolation

• Suicide attempts

Major anxiety disorders include:

Panic Disorder = Characterized by repeated episodes of irrational anxiety (panic attacks) not limited to specific situations.

Agoraphobia - A group of anxiety disorders, including a fear of open spaces and public places. Agoraphobia is one of the most maladaptive forms of phobic disorders.

Generalized Anxiety Disorder - Manifests as a constant sense of fear, tension, and sustained anxiety about various life events with an extremely low probability.

Social Phobia - This anxiety disorder is based on the fear of presenting oneself to others, being in awkward situations, or facing criticism. Often, this disorder is linked to low self-esteem and a fear of criticism.

Treatment of Anxiety Disorders 

The treatment of anxiety disorders involves a comprehensive approach based on lifestyle changes, psychotherapy, and medication. The therapy for generalized anxiety disorder often relies on the use of psychoactive drugs such as antidepressants. Under no circumstances should medication be discontinued arbitrarily.

Psychotherapy for anxiety disorders is conducted through various methods, including individual, group, or family sessions. The primary focus of therapeutic intervention is to influence the attitude towards emerging fears.