Anxiety is a common human experience characterized by feelings of tension, worried thoughts and physical changes like increased blood pressure. Nearly everybody experiences some anxiety in their life.
Anxiety arises from interactions between external events and our biological and psychological vulnerabilities. Its causes are complex and diverse, but research points to factors like genetics, brain chemistry, personality, and life events.
For example, someone with a family history of anxiety who faces chronic stress at work and just went through a traumatic event may be more likely to develop an anxiety disorder.
Symptoms can range from mild to severe.
Anxiety disorders are very common: according to the Anxiety and Depression Association of America, they affect 40 million adults in the USA every year. However, around two-thirds of people suffering from anxiety do not receive treatment.
While anxiety is normal, anxiety disorders are illnesses involving persistent, excessive fear or worry.
Anxiety becomes a disorder when the symptoms are ongoing and interfere significantly with daily activities or cause distress. Examples of disorders include generalized anxiety disorder, social anxiety, panic disorder and PTSD.
"Anxiety feels like impending doom - your body goes, 'I'm in danger' - it doesn't know the difference between a tiger and public speaking." -Elizabeth Vargas
If you feel like anxiety is interfering with your life, reach out for help. Effective treatments for anxiety disorders include:
The compassionate doctors at Hormone Harmony Clinic also offer personalized hormone therapy to help clients find emotional balance and overcome anxiety through natural, research-backed treatments.
I hope this gives you a helpful overview. Let me know if you have any other questions! Anxiety is tough but treatable. The first step is understanding it.