Everybody worries sometimes, but if your worries are serious and constant, you may be one of the more than 23 million Americans dealing with anxiety disorders, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center (UMMC). Anxiety disorders are the most common emotional disorder experienced by people in the United States, and understanding exactly what anxiety is can help you deal with your anxiety disorder.
Identification
People who have anxiety disorders experience excessive worry and extreme nervousness that doesn't have a rational cause and that can't be managed by normal efforts, according to the UMMC. If you're fearful or anxious and can't explain why, if you have constant and unrealistic worries about everyday events and activities or if you find yourself constantly checking and rechecking your behaviors, you might have an anxiety disorder, according to the American Psychological Association (APA).
Causes
There are several reasons people might develop anxiety disorders, according to the UMMC. Chemical imbalances in the brain can cause some people to be more prone to anxiety and anxiety disorders. Some types of anxiety may be hereditary, so if you have a family history of anxiety disorders, you may be more prone to anxiety. Your personal history can also play a role--if you have had negative social or work experiences, you may be more likely to feel anxious in those areas of your life.
Types
According to the APA, anxiety disorders can take several different forms. Generalized anxiety disorder is characterized by a persistent sense of worry that lasts for more than six months. Panic disorders manifest as sudden attacks of overwhelming anxiety that include symptoms such as difficulty breathing, increased heart rate and dizziness. People with obsessive-compulsive disorder use ritualized behaviors to cope with anxiety. People who have experienced a very stressful or traumatic event may develop a type of anxiety known as post-traumatic stress disorder that often includes flashbacks and nightmares.
Significance
Anxiety disorders can manifest in emotional and physical symptoms that can make it difficult to manage your everyday activities. People with anxiety disorders may feel nervous and panicked in non-threatening situations. They may not be able to control their thoughts or behavior and may have flashbacks and nightmares, all of which can interfere with their lives. According to the UMMC, people with anxiety disorders may also experience physical symptoms, including disturbed sleep, muscle tension, digestive issues, dry mouth and increased heartbeats, which may put them at risk for future health problems.
Prevention/Solution
Though anxiety can be a serious problem, it's usually also a very treatable one, according to the Anxiety Disorders Association of America. Most people with anxiety disorders respond well to therapy, medication or complementary treatments or a combination of these methods. The ADAA also recommends keeping anxiety in check by engaging in regular exercise and a healthy diet, getting involved in volunteer activities and learning meditation techniques.
