Symptoms, Treatments and Causes of Anxiety Disorders

Over 18 percent of the American population suffers from an anxiety disorder. This can be difficult for not only the person suffering, but also their family members. It is important for the family to understand what anxiety disorders are, and what are the symptoms, causes and forms of treatment for the anxiety disorder.

To begin, anxiety disorders are thought to be caused by a combination of factors. Environmental, genetic and chemical factors in addition to the stress of daily living can trigger the onset of an anxiety disorder. As each person is unique and their contributing factors are varied and different.

Symptoms of an anxiety disorder can include nervousness, rapid breathing, apprehension, digestive problems and insomnia as well as fear and chest pains that can cause the afflicted to believe they are having a heart attack. If a feeling of constant worry and a fear of how people view you constantly hangs over your head you could be suffering from an anxiety disorder.

Treatment for an anxiety disorder will begin with a visit to your family physician. A general physician can offer you a diagnosis and discuss treatment options with you, or the person who is suffering from the anxiety disorder. As there are many different forms of treatment for anxiety disorders available, your family doctor will discuss options with you and refer you to a specialist. Therapy is available from clinical social workers, psychologists, psychiatrists and therapists to name a few. Treatment will be a combination of medications and therapies, depending upon your condition.

If you have been experiencing the previously mentioned symptoms, such as fear, chest pains and rapid changes in your body temperature for a period of four months or longer, I would recommend that you seek medical counsel and examinations as there are other illnesses that can mimic and onset anxiety disorders. To name a few: sleep disorders, as well as chemical and thyroid disorders.

Anxiety is nothing to be ashamed of. At one time or another, everyone will be affected by some form of anxiety in their lives. With the support of a doctor and mental health care provider, in addition to medication and healthy changes you can get a grip on yourself, and restore order in your life. The first step is to take control, and seek a medical opinion. You do not have to live your life in fear, or discomfort. It is important to realize that every anxiety disorder is as unique and different as the person afflicted with the disorder, and every contributing factor is different.

All of the information for this article came from my family doctor, as I have a loved one who is suffering from an anxiety disorder. After a long talk with him, I decided to write this article to share what I had learned with others who are clueless about anxiety disorders.