Anxiety disorders

Anxiety disorders are mental health conditions characterized by intense and persistent feelings of worry or fear that interfere with a person's daily activities. These disorders can manifest themselves in a variety of ways and significantly affect quality of life.

What is anxiety

Anxiety is a natural response of the body to situations of stress or imminent danger. However, when this response becomes excessive, persistent and disproportionate to the situation, it can be considered an anxiety disorder. Unlike stress, which is usually a reaction to an identifiable external stimulus, anxiety can arise without an apparent cause and persist over time.

Symptoms

Symptoms of anxiety disorders can vary depending on the specific type, but commonly include.

Physical symptoms: palpitations, excessive sweating, tremors, shortness of breath, tightness in the chest, dizziness and gastrointestinal discomfort, etc.

Cognitive symptoms: constant worrying, intrusive thoughts, difficulty concentrating and feeling of unreality.

Behavioral symptoms: avoidance of feared situations, restlessness and compulsive behaviors.

Types of anxiety

There are several types of anxiety disorders, among the most common are:

Generalized anxiety

It is characterized by excessive and persistent worry about various areas of daily life, such as work, health or interpersonal relationships, even when there is no obvious reason for concern.

Panic attack

These are sudden episodes of intense fear that trigger severe physical symptoms, such as palpitations, shortness of breath and a feeling of loss of control.

Social phobia

Also known as social anxiety, involves an intense and persistent fear of being judged or humiliated in social situations, which can lead to avoidance of interactions with others.

Agoraphobia

This is the fear of situations where escape might be difficult or where help may not be available if panic symptoms occur. This may include fear of being in open spaces, crowds, or outside alone.

Post-traumatic stress disorder

Develops after experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event, causing symptoms such as intrusive memories, nightmares, and an exaggerated startle response.

Causes

The causes of anxiety disorders are multifactorial and include:

Genetic factors: a familial predisposition may increase the risk of developing anxiety.

Biological factors: imbalances in neurotransmitters such as serotonin and norepinephrine may influence the onset of anxious symptoms.

Environmental factors: traumatic experiences, chronic stress or significant life events may trigger or aggravate anxiety.

Psychological factors: personality traits such as perfectionism or low self-esteem may contribute to the development of anxiety disorders.

Treatment of anxiety disorders

Treatment of anxiety disorders is usually multidisciplinary and includes.

Psychological therapy: cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is especially effective, helping to identify and modify negative thought patterns and behaviors associated with anxiety.

Relaxation and breathing techniques: practicing deep breathing exercises can help reduce anxiety in times of stress. One recommended technique is diaphragmatic breathing, which involves inhaling slowly through the nose, allowing the abdomen to expand, and exhaling gently through the mouth. This practice can calm the nervous system and decrease the anxious response.

Medication: antidepressants and anxiolytics can be prescribed to alleviate symptoms, always under medical supervision.

Healthy lifestyle: maintaining a regular physical exercise routine, a balanced diet and adequate sleep contribute significantly to anxiety management.

It is essential to seek professional help if anxiety interferes with daily life, as proper treatment can significantly improve well-being and quality of life.

Reviewed by Bárbara González and Laura Morant