10 Common Causes of Anxiety Disorders Explained
╰┈➤ Well, it is entirely natural to feel worried or anxious prior to a job interview, test, or any significant life experience. However, it is alarming when this fear and worry turn into permanent problems and start affecting everyday functions. One of the questions asked quite frequently in such cases is ‘What causes anxiety disorders?’ The answer to this question is not a single factor. There is no particular thing that makes an individual experience anxiety. In the majority of cases, this type of disorder occurs due to multiple biological, psychological, environmental, and lifestyle factors. For some individuals, their genetic makeup is responsible for high vulnerability. Others may have experienced trauma, stress, or suffer from several medical conditions. So, in this guide we will discuss what the common causes of anxiety disorders are in teens and how to lower the risk of developing this condition. What Are Anxiety Disorders? Anxiety disorders represent a group of mental illnesses that involve an abnormal degree of fearfulness or worry. Some common types of anxiety disorders are: Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) Panic disorder Social anxiety disorder Phobias Separation anxiety disorder Agoraphobia While all the above-listed anxiety disorders have distinct characteristics, they may have the same causes. The Main Causes of Anxiety Disorders: As per the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), scientists have observed the interaction between biological characteristics, genetic background, and environment that impacts the functioning of the brain in response to fear and stress. Thus, it is crucial to examine the complete scenario while determining the cause of anxiety disorders. Here we have discussed the main causes of anxiety disorders. 1. Genetics and Family History The first of many causes of anxiety disorders is genetics. Those with a family history of anxiety disorders will carry genetic markers that can make them more susceptible to stressful situations. However, this does not mean that genetics cause an anxiety disorder; rather, it makes the person more vulnerable to such conditions. Moreover, it has been estimated that inheritance plays a role in around 30% to 50% of the risks of several anxiety disorders. Key Takeaway: In the end, genetics can make someone more vulnerable to the disease, but there are other significant factors. 2. Brain Neurochemistry and the Nervous System The brain utilizes chemicals known as neurotransmitters to control the regulation of emotions. However, several neurotransmitters affect the development of anxiety. These include: Serotonin Dopamine Norepinephrine Gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) So, when the brain chemicals malfunction, there is a sharp response to perceived danger, leading to more fear and anxiety. Moreover, individuals with overly sensitive nervous systems react more to stress in daily life. 3. Childhood Trauma and Adverse Experiences Undoubtedly, childhood experiences influence the emotional health of adolescents. Individuals who grow up amid long periods of stress and trauma can acquire a stress reaction that carries over into their adult lives. These include: Emotional abuse Physical abuse Sexual abuse Neglect Bullying Domestic violence Parental loss Household dysfunction To conclude, not all individuals who suffer trauma will become anxious, but adverse childhood experiences make it more likely to happen. 4. Chronic Stress Well, stress is part of everyday life, but chronic stress can put extremely adverse effect on the brain and body. Some common causes of stress include: Money troubles Work stress School stress Responsibilities as a caregiver Difficulties in relationships Prolonged illness As a result of this constant state of stress, it becomes difficult for the body to return to a relaxed state. Such an individual is more likely to develop an anxiety disorder. 5. Personality Characteristics Some personality features predispose some people to anxiety. They are: Perfectionism Sensitivity Uncertainty fears Low self-esteem Ruminate Self-criticism Desire for control In the end, these traits themselves do not cause anxiety; however, they play an important role in how people perceive stress. 6. Substance Use and Prescription Drugs Well, there is no doubt that substance abuse can induce anxiety and make it worse ultimately. These include: Overuse of caffeine Excessive use of alcohol Nicotine Certain prescription drugs At first, alcohol appears soothing; however, excessive use generally aggravates anxiety symptoms. 7. Social Isolation Good social support promotes good mental health. Loneliness or social disconnection can lead to: Depression Chronic Stress Emotional discomfort Lack of resilience So, good relationships tend to serve as buffers against anxiety. 8. Insomnia and Sleep Disturbances: Well, there is a bidirectional relationship between sleep and mental wellbeing. Insomnia can lead to anxiety, which in turn will make it harder for one to sleep. Such a pattern can eventually become hard to break. So, those people who suffer from insomnia and poor sleep usually face: Greater irritability Trouble concentrating Greater emotional reactivity Anxiety Stress intolerance However, scientists have found that enough sleep normalizes the functioning of the emotional centers in the brain, and hence it is easier to cope with life challenges. To conclude, it is important to pay more attention to your sleep hygiene. 9. Important Life Changes Important life changes can cause anxiety because of feelings of uncertainty, responsibility, or stress associated with the change. Some of these may include: Beginning a new career Job loss Getting married Getting divorced Becoming pregnant Having a child Relocation Retirement Financial problems The loss of a loved one Moreover, positive life changes can be stressful too. The more changes that occur in a short period of time, the more emotionally taxing it becomes for the individual. 10. Environmental Factors The environment impacts our mental well-being to a greater extent than most people think. Some of the environmental factors contributing to anxiety are: Unsafe neighborhoods Violence Poverty or financial instability Job-related stress Educational pressures Family disagreements Discrimination Natural calamities However, these factors are not a direct cause of anxiety, but living in such environments for prolonged periods increases the risk of developing an anxiety disorder. How These Causes Come Together? Anxiety disorders often arise because