No definitive cause of Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) has been identified. However, as with many other mental health problems, several factors contribute to the development of this form of anxiety. According to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders published by the American Psychiatric Association, many people with this disorder report feeling anxious and nervous over the course of his or her life.
Genetic Makeup
Research conducted in the 1990's suggests that genetics play a role in the development of GAD. In other words, risks for developing GAD pass down from a parent to child. However, family histories of GAD don't guarantee that future generations will develop it. Other factors, such as environmental factors described below, also play a part..
Brain Chemistry
Some sources, such as MayoClinic.com, believe that brain chemistry plays a part in the cause of GAD. Chemicals in the brain called neurotransmitters have varying effects on the way humans think, feel and behave. Researchers believe that a problem with one of these neurotransmitters (e.g. too much or too little), this may cause GAD, among other potential issues. Examples of neurotransmitters likely associated with GAD include serotonin, norepinephrine and dopamine.
Stress and Trauma
Experts believe that exposure to traumatic and painful experiences plays a part in the development of GAD. Examples of these traumas include the death of a parent or other caregiver, involvement in a natural disaster, a severe accident or abuse victimization (physical, sexual, or psychological). Additionally, insecure attachment with a primary caregiver during childhood may contribute to GAD.
No universal agreement exists regarding how exposure to traumatic situations causes GAD. However, according to Dr. Timothy Brown, Dr. Tracy O'Leary and Dr. David Barlow in a chapter regarding GAD in the Clinical Handbook of Psychological Disorders, most assume that exposure to a traumatic experience may change the way an individual perceives the world. The changes in perception may lead to a constant worry of future danger and the emergence of negative beliefs about the world, self and future. These patterns of thinking, if left untreated over time, become worse, leading to more significant problems with anxiety.
The Way You Think
As described above, the way people think about the world contributes to the development of GAD. Researchers, such as Dr. Albert Bandura and Dr. Aaron Beck, believe that when people do not perceive themselves as able to cope or deal with future adversity they possess a higher risk for the development of anxiety. This uncertainty of self develops into a fear of unknown future issues, exacerbating worry over time, until it becomes pathological. These individuals may come to believe that they have little control over their life or world, causing further problems with anxiety.
Getting Help
If someone believes they may have problems with anxiety please consult a licensed health professional for an assessment and treatment options.
References
- The Mayo Clinic: Generalized Anxiety Disorder
- "Diagnostic and Statistical Manuel of Mental Disorders, 4th Edition, Text Revision"; American Psychiatric Association; 2000
- "Clinical Handbook Of Psychological Disorders"; Timothy A. Brown, Psy.D., Tracy A. O'Leary, Ph.D., and David H. Barlow, Ph D.; 2001
- "Understanding and Treating Anxiety Disorders: An Integrative Approach to Healing the Wounded Self"; Barry E. Wolfe, M.D.; 2005
