Everyone experiences anxiety at some point in their lives. For some, anxiety is a fleeting feeling that comes and goes. For others, anxiety is a chronic and debilitating condition that has a profound impact on their day-to-day lives. But what causes anxiety? Is anxiety hereditary or is it something that we learn from our environment? Do you need anxiety treatment? Let’s take a closer look.
What is Anxiety?
Anxiety is a normal human emotion that we all experience at one time or another. It’s the feeling of apprehension or fear that comes before an anticipated event, such as taking a test or going on a first date. Most of us feel anxious when we’re faced with new and challenging situations. And while a certain amount of anxiety can be helpful—it can motive us to prepare and work harder—too much anxiety can be paralyzing and make it difficult to function in everyday life.
Is Anxiety Hereditary or Learned?
There are two schools of thought when it comes to the causes of anxiety. Some experts believe that anxiety is hereditary and runs in families. Others believe that anxiety is learned behavior that’s acquired from our environment and the people around us. There’s some evidence to support both theories.
For example, studies have shown that people who have close relatives with anxiety disorders are more likely to develop an anxiety disorder themselves. This suggests that there may be a genetic component to anxiety. However, it’s also been shown that people who grew up in homes where parents were constantly arguing or who experienced traumatic events, such as abuse or natural disasters, are also more likely to develop an anxiety disorder. This suggests that environmental factors play a role in the development of anxiety as well.
It’s likely that both hereditary and environmental factors contribute to the development of anxiety disorders. And while we don’t yet know exactly how they interact, we do know that treatment can be very effective in managing symptoms and improving quality of life.
Mental Health Treatment for Anxiety
If you’re struggling with anxiety, there are many different types of treatment available—both medication and therapy have been shown to be effective in reducing symptoms. If you’re unsure about what type of treatment is right for you, speak to your doctor or mental health professional about your options.
The first step in mental health treatment is usually to see a mental health professional, such as a psychiatrist, psychologist, or social worker. They will ask you about your symptoms and how long you’ve been experiencing them. They will also want to rule out any other possible causes of your symptoms, such as a physical health condition or substance abuse.
Once a diagnosis has been made, you and your mental health professional will work together to develop a treatment plan. Treatment for anxiety usually includes medication, therapy, or a combination of the two.
Medication
There are many different types of medications used to treat anxiety. The most common are antidepressants, anti-anxiety medications, and beta-blockers. Antidepressants work by increasing levels of serotonin, a chemical messenger in the brain that helps regulate mood. Anti-anxiety medications work by reducing the symptoms of anxiety, such as fear and racing thoughts. Beta-blockers are usually used to treat physical symptoms of anxiety, such as trembling and sweating.
Therapy
There are many different types of therapy used to treat anxiety. The most common are cognitive-behavioral therapy, exposure therapy, and relaxation techniques. Cognitive-behavioral therapy helps you identify and change the thought patterns that contribute to your anxiety. Exposure therapy gradually exposes you to the things you’re afraid of so that you can learn to manage your fear.
Get Help for Anxiety Today
If you’re struggling with anxiety, know that you’re not alone. Millions of people suffer from this common mental health condition, but there are treatments available that can help you manage your symptoms and live a happy and healthy life. Don’t suffer in silence. If you need help, reach out. Call Five Palms today at 1.844.675.1022 and let’s help you get your anxiety back under control.
