Understanding Anxiety: Symptoms, Causes, Treatment Options and Effective Management Tips

What Is Anxiety?

Anxiety is a mental health condition that involves excessive worry, fear, or unease about potential threats to well-being. When anxiety becomes excessive, it can manifest in different psychiatric disorders, for example, generalised anxiety disorder, panic disorder, social anxiety disorder, and phobias.

What Are The Clinical Presentations / Symptoms Of An Anxiety Disorder?

The clinical presentations are manifested differently depending on the type of anxiety disorder one is experiencing. In general, the physical symptoms of anxiety may include:

• Tension headache
• Dizziness
• Dry mouth
• Choking sensation
• Difficulty breathing
• Fast heartbeat
• Gastrointestinal discomfort
• Muscle tension
• Cold sweats
• Tremor

What Are The Underlying Causes Of Anxiety?

Anxiety can arise from multiple causes, both biological and psychosocial. These include:

Biological Factors Of Anxiety

• Genetics
• Neurotransmitter imbalances
• Medical conditions
• Substance use

Psychosocial Factors Of Anxiety

• Life stress
• Trauma
• Upbringing
• Personality

Identifying the Cause

If you know what’s causing anxiety, fear, or panic, it might be easier to find ways to manage it. Some examples of possible causes include:

• Work-related issues:
• Pressure at work
• Unemployment or retirement
  
  
• Family-related concerns:
• Relationship difficulties
• Divorce or caring for someone
  
  
• Financial problems:
• Unexpected bills or borrowing money
  
  
• Health issues:
• Illness, injury, or losing someone (bereavement)
  
  
• Difficult past experiences:
• Bullying, abuse, or neglect
  
  

Even significant life events, such as buying a house, having a baby, or planning a wedding, could lead to feelings of stress and anxiety.

You might find it hard to explain to others why you feel this way, but talking to someone could help you find a solution.

How Is Anxiety Disorder Treated?

Anxiety disorders can be treated with a combination of medication and psychotherapy, depending on the underlying cause.Common medications for treating anxiety include selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), and benzodiazepines for short-term relief. Psychotherapy, including cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), is also an effective treatment for managing anxiety.

Practical Tips for Managing Anxiety

• Set small, achievable goals to avoid feeling overwhelmed.
• Focus on what you can control and take steps to improve your well-being.
• Gradually face anxiety-inducing situations to build tolerance over time.
• Remember, you are not alone, anxiety is common, and support is available.
• Avoid unhealthy coping methods like alcohol, smoking, or drugs, as they can worsen mental health.

Taking Care Of Your Mental Health

We must take good care of our mental well-being, just like we care for our physical health. Ensuring that we have a healthy, balanced diet, adequate physical activity, a good amount of rest, and social support is essential for our mental fitness.

If you need guidance or support, Gleneagles Hospital Penang offers the expertise of experienced mental health professionals and psychiatrists, to provide personalised care and advice. Reach out to us today to prioritise your mental health!