Anxiety disorders are widespread but often misunderstood. They are not simply a temporary phase or a reaction to stress; rather, they can significantly impact daily life, especially when the true causes and triggers are not identified, and only the symptoms are treated instead.
Overview of Topics
Which Anxiety Disorders Are the Most Common?
Generalized Anxiety Disorder
People with generalized anxiety disorder experience excessive worry about a variety of things, including everyday concerns like health, work, or finances. These worries are chronic, hard to control, and often very distressing.
Panic Disorder
Individuals experience recurring panic attacks—sudden episodes of intense fear accompanied by numerous physical symptoms, such as heart palpitations, sweating, and shortness of breath.
Social Phobia (Social Anxiety Disorder)
This type of anxiety disorder leads to intense fear in social situations. Affected individuals fear being judged negatively or rejected by others.
Agoraphobia
People with agoraphobia experience intense fear, sometimes leading to panic attacks, in situations where escape may be difficult. This can include crowded places, public transportation, or large open spaces.
What Else Is Considered an Anxiety Disorder?
Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) have historically been classified as anxiety disorders, as they often arise when anxiety disorders are not recognized or treated early. PTSD, for example, can develop after traumatic experiences. According to research, nearly 90% of people will experience a traumatic event at some point, but only about 8% go on to develop PTSD.
For years, it was thought that PTSD primarily developed when individuals did not receive enough therapeutic care after a traumatic event. However, newer studies indicate that PTSD may actually become more entrenched the longer traumatic experiences are revisited in therapy. Many approaches focus heavily on revisiting traumatic memories, which can deepen these memories neurologically rather than healing them.
What Are the Causes of an Anxiety Disorder?
The causes of anxiety disorders are varied and can include genetic, biological, psychological, and environmental factors. Family history, traumatic experiences, chronic stress, and learned thinking patterns can all contribute to the development of an anxiety disorder. Even improperly dosed thyroid medication can play a role.
For years, the “chemical imbalance” theory—particularly a supposed deficiency in serotonin—was widely believed to be the cause of anxiety and depression. However, numerous studies have since disproven this theory. Despite this, many doctors and therapists continue to reference the serotonin myth, which frustrates many professionals who follow the latest scientific findings. Psychiatrist and neurochemist Tim Kendall, who advises the British government on health issues, has spoken out against the “serotonin hypothesis,” calling it “a pack of lies and nonsense.” According to him, there is no credible evidence that people with depression or anxiety have issues with their serotonin levels.
This widespread misunderstanding has hindered the exploration of true anxiety triggers. As a result, many causes of anxiety disorders have been overlooked. Here’s an overview:
Widely Known Causes of Anxiety Disorders
- Excessive stress
- Family predisposition
- Traumatic experiences in the past
- Anxious personality traits
- Hyperthyroidism
- Heart and nerve diseases
- Alleged neurotransmitter imbalances in the brain
Frequently Overlooked Triggers of an Anxiety Disorder
- Roemheld syndrome (gastrointestinal issues that mimic anxiety)
- Side effects of various medications
- Faulty thinking patterns
- Incorrect dosage of thyroid medication
- Misinformation on social media
- Drug use and energy drinks
- Food intolerances
- Problems with the cervical spine (neck area)
- Therapy methods that don’t match the individual’s personality type
At What Age Do Anxiety Disorders Occur?
Anxiety disorders can occur at any age, though they often begin in childhood or adolescence. Without proper treatment, symptoms can persist into adulthood. Recognizing early signs and seeking help can prevent symptoms from worsening.
How Does an Anxiety Disorder Manifest?
Anxiety disorders can manifest in various ways. Individuals may experience persistent and overwhelming fear or worry that goes far beyond normal stress responses. Common physical symptoms include trembling, sweating, rapid heartbeat, shortness of breath, and dizziness. Emotionally, people may feel unease, panic, or even a paralyzing fear, sometimes accompanied by a fear of death. Thoughts often become fixated on potential dangers or worst-case scenarios, even if they are unlikely. These symptoms can disrupt daily life, leading individuals to avoid certain situations or places.
Physical Symptoms of an Anxiety Disorder:
- Trembling: Uncontrollable shaking or trembling
- Excessive sweating, even without exertion
- Heart palpitations or a racing heartbeat
- Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
- Stomach issues: nausea, cramps, or diarrhea
- Muscle tension, often in the neck or back
Emotional and Cognitive Symptoms of an Anxiety Disorder:
- Excessive worry that feels uncontrollable
- Restlessness or feeling “on edge”
- Irritability and low tolerance for stress
- Difficulty concentrating or remembering
- Intense feelings of panic or impending doom
- Avoidance of situations or places that might trigger anxiety
What Triggers Anxiety in the Body?
Anxiety is a natural bodily response to a perceived threat and is part of our survival mechanism, often called the “fight-or-flight” response. Here’s what happens in the body:
Activation of the Sympathetic Nervous System: This triggers the release of stress hormones like adrenaline and noradrenaline.
Release of Adrenaline: This increases heart rate and breathing, preparing the body to react quickly.
Increased Muscle Tension: Muscles tense up in readiness for potential action, leading to tightness and trembling.
Pupil Dilation: Pupils dilate to improve vision.
Redistribution of Blood: Blood flow shifts away from non-essential organs (like the digestive system) to muscles and the brain, which can cause stomach issues and dizziness.
Increased Sweating: The body sweats to prevent overheating in case physical exertion is needed.
These reactions are normal and would be appropriate in the presence of real danger. However, in people with anxiety disorders, this “fight-or-flight” response is often triggered without any actual threat.
How Do Anxiety Disorders Begin?
Anxiety disorders typically develop gradually over time. Initial symptoms may include occasional discomfort or worry in specific situations. Stressful life events or trauma can intensify these feelings, causing them to occur more frequently and disrupt daily life. Early signs may also include sleep disturbances, irritability, and trouble concentrating. Seeking help early can prevent symptoms from worsening.
How Does a Person with an Anxiety Disorder Behave?
People with anxiety disorders may withdraw from situations that could trigger anxiety, appearing irritable or nervous. In social settings, they may seem tense and preoccupied with how others perceive them.
How Does It Feel to Have an Anxiety Disorder?
Living with an anxiety disorder often feels overwhelming, with constant worry and fear. Physical symptoms like a racing heart, trembling, and shortness of breath are common. Emotionally, there’s a persistent sense of tension and restlessness, which can be very distressing and disruptive to daily life.
How Do You Know If You Have an Anxiety Disorder?
If you have been experiencing persistent, excessive anxiety or worry that significantly affects your daily life, you may have an anxiety disorder. Physical symptoms like a racing heart, trembling, and shortness of breath without an apparent cause are also warning signs.
A Simple Self-Test: Do I Have an Anxiety Disorder?
Consider the following questions:
- Do you experience intense and uncontrollable worries?
- Do you have physical symptoms like a racing heart, trembling, or shortness of breath without a clear cause?
- Do you avoid situations or places that could trigger panic or discomfort?
- Do social situations cause extreme anxiety about how others might judge you?
- Do your anxieties interfere with work, school, or social life?
If you answered “yes” to several of these questions, you may have an anxiety disorder. A doctor or therapist can help you get a proper diagnosis and discuss treatment options.
Is an Anxiety Disorder the Same as Depression?
No, anxiety disorders and depression are distinct conditions, though they can co-occur. Anxiety is characterized by excessive fear and worry, while depression involves persistent sadness and a lack of interest in life. Depression can sometimes develop as a result of untreated anxiety.
What Can Be Done About an Anxiety Disorder?
There are various approaches to treating anxiety disorders:
Psychotherapy
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is one of the most well-known methods for identifying and changing negative thought patterns. However, it may not always be the most effective approach. Exposure therapy, where patients are encouraged to repeatedly face their fears until they overcome them, is also becoming less popular. Many patients treated with the Bernhardt Method report faster recovery without the discomfort of exposure therapy.
Medications
In some cases, medications like antidepressants or benzodiazepines are prescribed to help manage anxiety. The idea of taking a pill to relieve all discomfort can be appealing, but unfortunately, these medications often show limited effectiveness beyond that of placebos and come with numerous side effects. There’s also a risk of dependency or, at the very least, challenging withdrawal symptoms. Therefore, medications should be taken only in exceptional cases and always under the guidance of a trusted doctor.
Self-Help and Support
Support from loved ones can play an important role in managing anxiety. Understanding and patience from friends and family are invaluable, but it’s essential for individuals to take responsibility for their own recovery and be as proactive as possible. Self-help strategies, such as mindfulness techniques, regular exercise, and avoiding triggers like caffeine, can be effective supplementary measures.
The Burden of Invisibility
For many people, anxiety disorders are invisible. Unlike physical illnesses, they don’t have visible signs like casts or rashes. This often leads to affected individuals not being taken seriously. Common phrases like “Just pull yourself together” or “It’s not that bad” are unfortunately widespread and can make the situation even harder.
An anxiety disorder can impact daily life in numerous ways. Professional challenges, social interactions, and even simple tasks like grocery shopping or making phone calls can become significant hurdles. The constant fear and avoidance of anxiety-provoking situations can eventually lead to isolation and loneliness.
A Call to Society
It’s time to break the stigma surrounding mental health disorders. Anxiety disorders are not a sign of weakness; they are real, serious conditions that require understanding and empathy. By fostering openness and compassion, we can help those affected feel that they are not alone.
If you or a loved one is suffering from an anxiety disorder, don’t hesitate to seek help. There are numerous resources and professionals available to support you. Taking that first step is often the hardest, but it’s also the most important step toward healing.
Anxiety disorders are treatable, and with the right support, individuals can learn to manage their fears and lead fulfilling lives. Let’s work together to overcome the invisibility of anxiety and promote an open dialogue about mental health.
Closing Remarks
The journey through the world of anxiety disorders can feel lonely and overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be that way. Modern therapeutic approaches with highly effective strategies can help you regain control over your life. Every small step out of fear is a step in the right direction. And if you’re ready to take that next step, I encourage you to watch the video below—it might just be a big one. I personally guarantee it.
Warm regards,
Klaus Bernhardt
(Director of the Institute for Modern Psychotherapy in Berlin)
Troy A.
Tampa, Florida