Anxiety affects each person differently. No two experiences are alike, so it can be challenging to uncover the root cause of this mental health condition. Experts believe many factors play a role in anxiety. Treatment is available, but the right treatment plan must address this root cause. What are some common causes of anxiety today?
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Past Experiences
Past experiences may put a person more at risk of anxiety. Stress and trauma at a young age typically have a significant impact on the person. Any child who is physically or emotionally abused might develop an anxiety disorder, and the same holds for children who are neglected. A child who loses a parent could find they struggle with the signs of anxiety and dissociation. Overprotective parents and those cold to their children might also produce anxious kids. However, the root cause might lie outside of the family.
Children who are bullied or socially excluded often develop anxiety. Racism is another factor that may play a role in anxiety disorders. Some people undergo these challenges and thrive, while others develop anxiety disorders. Why do people respond differently to similar experiences?
Genetics
Researchers believe there may be a genetic component to anxiety disorders. Research shows people with anxiety issues often have close relatives who also struggle with anxiety disorders. They refer to this as anxiety sensitivity. What the researchers have yet to determine is whether the anxiety has an underlying genetic component or if these behaviors are learned from parents and other adults in the family.
Current Circumstances
A person might also develop an anxiety disorder as a result of their current circumstances. People who are exhausted or constantly stressed often become anxious. A person might develop an anxiety disorder because their life is changing rapidly and they are facing uncertainty regarding the future. Long working hours can bring about anxiety just as losing one’s job can. Money or housing problems are often linked to anxiety, as well.
Today, many people worry about the environment or natural disasters. Mental health experts refer to this as climate or eco-anxiety. People who feel lonely or isolated may become anxious. The same is true for those who are bullied, harassed, or abused. Victims of racism often become nervous.
Health Issues
Physical and mental health issues can make a person anxious or worsen an existing anxiety disorder. Any serious, chronic, or life-threatening condition brings about changes in a person’s life and can leave them feeling uneasy. They may have limited control over improving their health and must rely on medical professionals to recommend the right treatments. This can leave them worried and experiencing symptoms of anxiety. Those who have an existing mental health condition might find they also develop an anxiety disorder.
Medications and Anxiety
Certain medications might make a person anxious. This side effect is seen with some psychiatric medications. Anxiety is also common in those who use recreational drugs and alcohol, but it may also come with the use of medicines for specific physical health issues. Speak with the prescribing physician to see how to manage this anxiety or whether another drug may be used, one that doesn’t come with this side effect.
Diet and Anxiety
Researchers now know certain foods or beverages might bring about an anxiety attack or worsen one that is already occurring. Sugar and caffeine are two major culprits. Learn which foods and drinks trigger an anxiety attack and eliminate them from the diet whenever possible.
Many people struggle with anxiety today. Now is the time to seek help for this common problem. Knowing the root cause can help determine the best treatment plan, so work with medical professionals to determine the cause. Those who do so can look forward to a brighter future, one in which they feel anxious less often.
