Anxiety Risk Factors , Complications, and Prevention

 

Anxiety and panic disrupt daily activities, are difficult to control, out of proportion to the actual danger, and can last for a long time. To avoid these feelings, you may avoid places or situations. Symptoms may appear in childhood or adolescence and persist into adulthood.

Anxiety is a normal part of life. People suffering from anxiety disorders, on the other hand, frequently experience intense, excessive, and persistent worry and fear about everyday situations. Anxiety disorders frequently involve repeated episodes of intense anxiety, fear, or terror that reach a peak within minutes (panic attacks).

The following factors may increase your chances of developing an anxiety disorder:

Personality. 

- Certain personality types are more vulnerable to anxiety disorders than others.

Trauma 

- Children who have experienced abuse or trauma, or who have witnessed traumatic events, are more likely to develop an anxiety disorder at some point in their lives. Adults who witness a traumatic event may develop anxiety disorders.

The accumulation of stress. 

- A major event or a series of minor stressful life events can cause excessive anxiety.

Alcohol or drugs 

- Anxiety can be caused or exacerbated by drug or alcohol use, misuse, or withdrawal.

Having blood relatives who suffer from anxiety. 

- Anxiety disorders can be hereditary.

Complications

Anxiety disorders do more than just make you worry. It can also cause or exacerbate other mental and physical conditions, such as:

• Sleeping problems (insomnia)
• Poor life quality & Problems with school or work performance
• Chronic pain and headaches
• Digestive or bowel issues
• Depression
• Misuse of drugs
• Isolation from others
• Self-harm

Prevention

There is no way to predict what will cause someone to develop an anxiety disorder, but there are steps you can take to reduce the impact of symptoms if you are anxious:

Get help right away. If you wait, anxiety, like many other mental health conditions, can become more difficult to treat.

Continue to be active. Engage in activities that you find enjoyable and that make you feel good about yourself. Enjoy social interaction and caring relationships to help you relax.

Avoid using alcohol or drugs. Anxiety can be caused or exacerbated by the use of alcohol and drugs. Quitting any of these substances can be stressful if you are addicted to them. If you are unable to quit on your own, consult your doctor or find a support group to assist you.