Anxiety is a normal state of dread, tension, and unease. It is considered a normal response to stress or uncertain situations. Prolonged or intense periods of anxiety may suggest an anxiety disorder. A disorder may also be indicated if anxiety:
The most common types of anxiety disorders are:
Anxiety is often complicated by the presence of alcohol or drug abuse and depression .
Anxiety may result from many factors including:
A risk factor increases your chance of getting a disease or condition. Risk factors for anxiety include:
Psychological symptoms may include:
Physical symptoms may include:
Your doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical history. A psychiatric evaluation will be done. Your doctor may also perform a physical exam and diagnostic tests. Usually the results of these tests are normal. You may be referred to a psychotherapist for further evaluation.
Effective treatment usually involves a combination of interventions, including:
This therapy addresses thoughts, feelings, and behaviors that play a role in anxiety. It helps you work through traumas and conflicts.
Cognitive-behavioral therapy can help you identify negative thought patterns and behaviors. Over time, you can learn to retrain your thinking. This will help you choose better options in response to stress and anxiety.
For severe anxiety or anxiety disorder, medicines may include:
If you are diagnosed with an anxiety disorder, follow your doctor's instructions .
To help prevent anxiety, consider taking the following steps:
RESOURCES:
Anxiety Disorders Association of America
http://www.adaa.org/
Mental Health America
http://www.nmha.org/
CANADIAN RESOURCES:
Canadian Psychiatric Association
http://www.cpa-apc.org/
Canadian Psychological Association
http://www.cpa.ca/
References:
Antidepressant use in children, adolescents, and adults. US Food and Drug Administration website. Available at: http://www.fda.gov/Drugs/DrugSafety/InformationbyDrugClass/UCM096273 . Published May 22, 2009. Accessed July 15, 2009.
Generalized anxiety disorder. National Institute of Mental Health website. Available at: http://www.nimh.nih.gov/ . Accessed June 18, 2008.
Nietzel MT, Wakefield JC. American Psychiatric Association: Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders . 4th ed. Text Revision. Washington, DC: American Psychiatric Association; 2000.
Tierney LM, McPhee SJ, Papadakis MA. Current Medical Diagnosis and Treatment . 45th ed. New York, NY: McGraw-Hill;2006.
12/4/2009 DynaMed's Systematic Literature Surveillance http://www.ebscohost.com/dynamed/what.php: Javnbakht M, Hejazi Kenari R, Ghasemi M. Effects of yoga on depression and anxiety of women. Complement Ther Clin Pract. 2009;15(2):102-104.
Last reviewed November 2009 by Theodor B. Rais, MD
Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
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