What to Know About Anxiety By Adam Felman
What to Know About Anxiety By Adam Felman
“Anxiety is a normal and often healthy emotion. However, when a person regularly feels disproportionate levels of anxiety, it might become a medical disorder...”
What to Know About Anxiety: Understanding the Signs, Causes, and Treatment Options
Anxiety is something most people experience at some point — but for many, it’s more than just a passing feeling. If you’re constantly worried, tense, or on edge, it might be more than everyday stress. You may be living with an anxiety disorder, one of the most common mental health conditions worldwide.
So, what exactly is anxiety, and how do you know if it's a problem? Let’s break it down.
What Is Anxiety?
Anxiety is your body’s natural response to stress or danger — a built-in alarm system designed to keep you safe. But when that response becomes chronic, overwhelming, or disconnected from real threats, it can interfere with your daily life.
Anxiety disorders go beyond occasional worry. They can cause persistent fear or dread that affects your work, relationships, and overall well-being. Some common types include:
Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) – excessive worry about many things, even when there’s no clear reason
Panic Disorder – sudden, intense episodes of fear, often with physical symptoms like a racing heart or shortness of breath
Social Anxiety Disorder – intense fear of being judged or embarrassed in social settings
Specific Phobias – overwhelming fear of particular objects or situations, like flying, heights, or spiders
Common Symptoms of Anxiety
Anxiety can show up in your body, mind, and behavior. You might experience:
Constant worry or nervousness
Restlessness or feeling “on edge”
Trouble sleeping or concentrating
Muscle tension, headaches, or fatigue
Increased heart rate or rapid breathing
Avoiding situations that trigger anxiety
These symptoms can range from mild to severe and often vary from person to person.
What Causes Anxiety?
Anxiety doesn’t have a single cause — it’s often the result of a combination of factors. These may include:
Genetics – a family history of anxiety or other mental health issues
Brain chemistry – imbalances in neurotransmitters like serotonin or dopamine
Life experiences – trauma, abuse, chronic stress, or major life changes
Medical conditions – certain health issues or medications can trigger anxiety-like symptoms
How Is Anxiety Treated?
The good news? Anxiety is highly treatable. Many people find relief through:
Therapy – especially cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), which helps you identify and change negative thought patterns
Medication – such as SSRIs or anti-anxiety medications, often prescribed by a doctor or psychiatrist
Lifestyle changes – regular exercise, meditation, improved sleep, and healthy nutrition can reduce symptoms
Support systems – connecting with loved ones or support groups can make a big difference
Treatment isn’t one-size-fits-all. What works best often depends on your unique experiences and needs — and you don’t have to figure it out alone.
You’re Not Alone
If anxiety is affecting your quality of life, know that you’re not alone — and help is available. Mental health professionals can guide you through understanding your anxiety and finding the support you need to feel more grounded, confident, and at ease.
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