Anxiety Decoded: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options

Anxiety is a subjective feeling of unease, discomfort, apprehension or fear accompanied by a host of autonomic and somatic manifestations. Anxiety is a normal, emotional, reasonable and expected response to real or potential danger. However, if the symptoms of anxiety are prolonged, irrational, disproportionate and/or severe, occur in the absence of stressful events or stimuli, or interfere with everyday activities, then these are called anxiety disorders (DSM IV-TR, 2000).

Anxiety disorder also happens when it
a) Interferes with your ability to function.
b) When one overreacts to a particular situation.
c) When one cannot control responses to situations.

Common Causes of Anxiety
• Genetics: Highly seen in the parents, children and siblings of a person with an anxiety disorder than in the relatives of someone without the disorder (Torgersen, 1983; Weissman, 1993; Goldman, 2001)
• Brain Chemistry: Imbalances of neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine.
• Trauma or Stress: Past experiences (e.g., abuse, neglect) or ongoing stressors (e.g., work relationships).
• Environmental Factors: High-pressure environments and lack of support.
• Medical Conditions: Hyperthyroidism, heart problems, or chronic illness.
• Substance Use: Alcohol, caffeine, or drug misuse.

Symptoms of Anxiety
• Physical Symptoms:
 Rapid heart rate or palpitations.
 Shortness of breath.
 Muscle tension.
 Sweating or chills.
 Dizziness or light-headedness.
 Nausea or stomach issues.
• Emotional Symptoms:
 Persistent worry or fear.
 Feeling restless
 Irritability.
 Trouble concentrating.
• Behavioural Symptoms:
 Avoidance of anxiety-triggering situations.
 Difficulty sleeping

Treatment Options

1. Psychological Therapies
   a. Behavioural Therapy: These focus on using techniques such as guided imagery, relaxation training, biofeedback (to control stress and muscle tension), progressive desensitisation, and flooding to reduce anxiety responses or eliminate specific phobias.
   b. Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT): Helps identify and challenge negative thought patterns.
   c. Exposure Therapy: Gradual exposure to anxiety triggers desensitises fears.
2. Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR): Combines meditation and mindfulness to reduce anxiety.
3. Medications
   a. Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs): e.g., Sertraline, Escitalopram.
   b. Benzodiazepines: For short-term use (e.g., Lorazepam, Diazepam).
   c. Beta-blockers: Control physical symptoms like a racing heart.
   d. Buspirone: For generalised anxiety disorder.
4. Lifestyle Changes
   a. Exercise: Regular physical activity reduces stress and improves mood.
   b. Healthy Diet: Avoid caffeine, sugar, and alcohol.
   c. Sleep Hygiene: Consistent sleep schedule and relaxation techniques before bed.
   d. Relaxation Techniques: Yoga, deep breathing and progressive muscle relaxation.
5. Self-Help Strategies
   a. Journaling to track triggers.
   b. Setting realistic goals and breaking tasks into smaller steps.
   c. Building a strong support network of friends, family, or support groups.

If anxiety symptoms persist or worsen, consult a mental health professional for a personalised treatment plan.