Anxiety disorder: definition, types, symptoms, causes, and treatments

Anxiety disorder comprises a group of mental health disorders characterized by persistent concern, heightened nervousness, and excessive fear, significantly disrupting daily life. Physical symptoms such as rapid heartbeat and restlessness often accompany emotional disturbances.

The different types of anxiety disorder include generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), panic disorder (PD), post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), social anxiety disorder (SAD), phobias, separation anxiety disorder, selective mutism, substance- or medication-induced anxiety disorder, anxiety disorder due to another medical condition.

Symptoms of anxiety disorder manifest in physical, mental, and behavioral ways. Physical symptoms include cold hands, dry mouth, heart palpitations, nausea, numbness or tingling in hands and feet, muscle tension, and shortness of breath.

Mental symptoms include a feeling of panic, fear, and uneasiness, nightmares, repeated thoughts or flashbacks of traumatic experiences, and uncontrollable, obsessive thoughts. Behavioral symptoms involve the inability to be still and calm, ritualistic behaviors, such as washing hands repeatedly, and trouble sleeping.

The causes of anxiety disorder are chemical imbalance, heredity, and environmental factors.

The available treatments for anxiety disorder are anti-anxiety medications, antidepressants, beta-blockers, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and exposure therapy.

What is an anxiety disorder?

An anxiety disorder is a mental health condition interfering with day-to-day functioning through the manifestation of excessive fear, ongoing worry, and a sensation of unease. Individuals often experience intense dread over situations appearing harmless or less dangerous than perceived.

Sleep disturbances are common, with many struggling to fall or stay asleep due to overwhelming concern. Anxiety is a mental illness contributing to a heightened state of alertness, creating challenges in relaxing or maintaining focus on tasks.

Affected individuals avoid specific places or activities as a coping mechanism to lessen distress. Severity differs among anxiety disorders, with certain individuals feeling occasional worry and others enduring persistent, overwhelming fear.

Is anxiety disorder a chemical imbalance?

No, anxiety disorder is not solely a chemical imbalance. While neurotransmitters like serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine influence mood and stress responses, anxiety disorders arise from a combination of genetic, environmental, and psychological factors.

Chemical imbalances exacerbate symptoms but do not fully explain why anxiety disorders occur. Differences in brain activity and emotional regulation further indicate multiple factors contribute to the condition beyond just neurotransmitter levels.

What is the neurophysiology of anxiety disorder?

The neurophysiology of anxiety disorder entails disturbances in brain chemicals, hormone systems, and brain architecture, mostly in areas in charge of processing emotions, controlling stress, and controlling thoughts, according to a 2009 study by Martin et al., titled “The Neurobiology of Anxiety Disorders: Brain Imaging, Genetics, and Psychoneuroendocrinology.”

Particularly in stressful situations, the amygdala—a vital brain area for identifying and reacting to emotional threats—tends to be overactive in people with anxiety disorders. The hippocampus, responsible for controlling the body’s stress response and managing memory, is often smaller and less effective in individuals with anxiety, increasing sensitivity to stress.

The prefrontal cortex, responsible for managing emotions and decision-making, loses strength in regulating emotional responses, leading to heightened anxiety. An imbalance in brain chemicals like gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) and glutamate disrupts calming and stimulating signals, increasing arousal and anxious feelings.

Additionally, issues in the systems regulating serotonin, norepinephrine, and dopamine—important chemicals linked to mood and stress response—are associated with mood disturbances and greater sensitivity to stress.

How common are anxiety disorders?

Anxiety disorders are the most common of all mental disorders, with around 30% of adults developing an anxiety disorder at a certain point in life, according to an article, titled “What are Anxiety Disorders?” last reviewed in June 2023 from the American Psychiatric Association.

The same report showed that in any given year, 8-12% of U.S. adults have a specific phobia, 7% struggle with social anxiety disorder, 2-3% experience panic disorder, 1-2.9% live with agoraphobia, 2% suffer from generalized anxiety disorder, and 0.9-1.9% have separation anxiety disorder.

A publication titled “Data and Statistics on Children’s Mental Health” last updated in January 2025 by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) revealed 10% of children and adolescents aged 3 to 17 have current, diagnosed anxiety, according to US data from 2021–2022. Of them, 9% were male and 11% were female.

Every year, anxiety disorders affect up to 20% of adults, according to an article titled “Generalized Anxiety Disorder” from Sadaf Munir and Veronica Takov last updated in October 2022.

Epidemiological studies indicate the prevalence of anxiety disorders diminishes with advancing age. Results of a 2019 study titled “Prevalence of Anxiety Symptoms and Their Association With Loss Experience in a Large Cohort Sample of the Oldest-Old. Results of the AgeCoDe/AgeQualiDe Study” by Welzel et al., found 14–17% of community-dwelling seniors aged 82 and older have an anxiety problem.

What are the different types of anxiety disorder?

Different types of anxiety disorder refer to a variety of mental health illnesses marked by excessive and ongoing sensations of worry, fear, and apprehension. The different types of anxiety disorder are listed below.

• Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD): GAD involves excessive worry about everyday situations and issues lasting more than six months. People with GAD experience anxiety over various circumstances rather than a single event.
• Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD): A condition marked by obsessive thoughts and compulsive behaviors, OCD causes persistent, uncontrollable patterns of thinking. The disorder leads to repetitive actions, fixation on germs and cleanliness, counting in specific sequences, or a strong need for order and symmetry. Engaging in compulsive behaviors brings brief relief from anxiety symptoms.
• Panic disorder (PD): Panic disorder is indicated by sudden attacks of fear or panic occurring regularly. Everyone experiences panic in dangerous situations, but a person with panic disorder exhibits intense physical reactions even without any apparent cause or real danger.
• Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD): PTSD is a condition where severe anxiety arises after experiencing or witnessing a terrifying or traumatic event. Long after the incident, people continue to experience nightmares, distressing recollections, and elevated emotional reactions disrupting day-to-day functioning.
• Social anxiety disorder (SAD): Otherwise known as social phobia, SAD is one of the types of anxiety disorders referring to an overwhelming long-term fear of social situations. Social phobia tends to be very distressing and has a major impact on a person’s life.
• Phobias: Phobias involve persistent and excessive fear of a situation or an object even when they pose little to no threat or danger. The most common phobias include acrophobia (fear of heights), claustrophobia (fear of tight spaces), and trypanophobia (fear of needles).
• Separation anxiety disorder: Separation anxiety disorder is described as an intense fear of being separated from a caregiver or loved one. People with the condition constantly anticipate bad things to happen and are afraid of losing parents, significant others, or siblings to the point of experiencing intense physical reactions and behavioral changes.
• Selective mutism: Selective mutism is a severe anxiety disorder marked by the inability to speak in certain social situations, such as with distant relatives or classmates. Individuals communicate comfortably in familiar settings but remain silent in environments triggering anxiety.
• Substance- or medication-induced anxiety disorder: Substance- or medication-induced anxiety disorder occurs when drug use, withdrawal, or certain medications trigger excessive fear, nervousness, or panic. Symptoms often emerge during intoxication or withdrawal and tend to persist as long as the substance affects the nervous system.
• Anxiety disorder due to another medical condition: Anxiety disorder due to another medical condition arises when a physical illness directly causes excessive fear, nervousness, or panic. Conditions like heart disease, thyroid disorders, or respiratory issues trigger or worsen anxiety symptoms by affecting brain function and stress responses.

What are the symptoms of anxiety disorder?

Symptoms of anxiety disorder are dependent on the specific type of disorder a person has. The most common symptoms of anxiety disorder are listed below.

• Physical symptoms: Anxiety disorders trigger physical reactions caused by heightened nervous system activity. Physical symptoms include increased heart rate, muscle tension, and breathing irregularities, often leading to discomfort. Persistent physical symptoms create distress and interfere with daily activities.
• Mental symptoms: Mental or psychological symptoms involve excessive worry, persistent fear, and an inability to control anxious thoughts. Individuals struggle with intrusive concerns that feel overwhelming, leading to difficulty concentrating. Over time, chronic mental distress fosters a cycle of negative thoughts, intensifying anxiety. Recurring thought patterns generate a sense of impending danger, even when no real risk is present.
• Behavioral symptoms: Behavioral symptoms involve noticeable actions driven by anxiety, often disrupting daily routines. Avoidance tendencies develop, leading individuals to steer clear of situations perceived as stressful or threatening. Repetitive behaviors, restlessness, or difficulty staying engaged in tasks reflect efforts to manage overwhelming emotions.

What are the physical symptoms of anxiety disorder?

Physical symptoms of anxiety disorder refer to physical changes people experience when facing triggers of anxiety. The physical symptoms of anxiety disorder are listed below.

• Cold or sweaty hands
• Dry mouth
• Heart palpitations
• Nausea
• Numbness or tingling in hands or feet
• Muscle tension
• Shortness of breath

1. Cold or sweaty hands

Cold or sweaty hands occur in anxiety disorder due to the body’s response to stress. When anxiety triggers the fight-or-flight reaction, the nervous system redirects blood flow away from the extremities, causing hands to feel cold.

Sweating increases as the body attempts to regulate temperature, even when no physical exertion occurs. Certain individuals experience excessive sweating, known as hyperhidrosis, which worsens under emotional distress.

The heightened activity of sweat glands makes hands feel damp, clammy, or uncomfortably wet. Stress-related sweating often happens suddenly, making social interactions and daily tasks more challenging. Persistent anxiety keeps the nervous system overactive, prolonging coldness or excessive sweating in the hands.

2. Dry mouth

Anxiety disrupts normal saliva production, leading to dry mouth as a physical symptom. The body’s fight-or-flight response reduces saliva flow, making the mouth feel parched and uncomfortable. Stress hormones like cortisol interfere with the function of salivary glands, worsening dryness.

Muscle tension in the jaw and throat further limits moisture, making swallowing or speaking difficult. Decreased saliva flow increases vulnerability to bad breath, cavities, and gum issues. Heightened awareness of bodily sensations often makes the dryness feel more pronounced.

Studies cited in a 2017 article by Gholami et al., titled “Effect of stress, anxiety and depression on unstimulated salivary flow rate and xerostomia” points to mental health issues like anxiety, stress, and depression as possible causes of decreased saliva production or a sensation of dry mouth even when actual saliva flow rates are normal.

3. Heart palpitations

​Heart palpitations often occur during anxiety episodes due to heightened nervous system activity. Increased adrenaline triggers a faster heartbeat, leading to sensations of pounding in the chest.

Individuals experiencing anxiety notice the heart skipping beats, creating a fluttering or irregular rhythm. The reaction stems from the body’s fight-or-flight response, which prepares for perceived threats by accelerating heart rate. Hyperventilation, common in anxious states, disrupts oxygen and carbon dioxide balance, further intensifying palpitations.

The most typically occurring non cardiac cause of palpitations is anxiety, accompanied by symptoms like sweating and a sensation of approaching doom, according to a 2017 article by Wexler et al., titled “Palpitations: Evaluation in the Primary Care Setting.”

4. Nausea

Anxiety triggers nausea because of the condition’s impact on the digestive system. Stress hormones released during anxious moments interfere with normal digestion, leading to discomfort. The stomach becomes more sensitive as the body’s fight-or-flight response diverts blood flow to essential organs.

Muscle tension in the abdomen, combined with shallow breathing, worsens queasiness. Heightened physiological responses amplify awareness of sensations in the stomach, causing mild discomfort to feel more intense.

The brain and gut are closely connected, so emotional strain directly influences digestion. Fear of vomiting or feeling sick further escalates anxiety, prolonging nausea. As stress levels drop, the stomach gradually returns to normal function, and nausea fades.

5. Numbness or tingling in hands or feet

Anxiety affects bodily functions in ways leading to numbness or tingling in the hands and feet. Stress-induced changes in blood flow reduce circulation to the extremities, creating a pins-and-needles sensation.

Rapid breathing often associated with anxiety lowers carbon dioxide levels, disrupting nerve function and intensifying tingling. Muscle tension in the shoulders and neck compresses nerves, making the hands and feet feel numb.

Constant worry about the sensation prolongs discomfort, reinforcing the cycle of anxiety. The body’s stress response temporarily interferes with normal nerve signaling, leading to abnormal sensations.

6. Muscle tension

Muscle tension frequently accompanies anxiety as the body reacts to stress. Heightened nervous system activity keeps muscles in a constant state of readiness, leading to stiffness and discomfort.

A common response to anxiety involves clenching the jaw, tightening the shoulders, or gripping the hands unconsciously. Prolonged tension causes headaches, neck pain, or soreness throughout the body. Shallow breathing and poor posture, often linked to stress, worsen muscle tightness.

As per a 2009 study by Pluess et al., titled “Muscle tension in generalized anxiety disorder: A critical review of the literature,” muscle tension is regarded as the most recognizable and regularly reported physical sign of generalized anxiety disorder (GAD).

Further emphasized in the review was the strong correlation between muscle tension and pathological worry, the main characteristic of GAD.

7. Shortness of breath

Anxiety often disrupts normal breathing patterns, causing shortness of breath. Stress triggers faster, shallow breathing, reducing oxygen levels and creating a feeling of air hunger. Dizziness, tightness in the chest, and a feeling of not receiving enough air are the indications of hyperventilation.

Muscle tension in the chest and throat further restricts airflow, making breathing feel difficult. Increased awareness of each breath heightens panic, worsening the sensation. According to a 2021 review by Sandberg et al., titled “Underlying conditions contributing to breathlessness in the population,” anxiety is more common among people with breathlessness and is hypothesized to additionally promote and exacerbate breathlessness by lowered gating of respiratory sensory input in the brain and increased breathing awareness.

What are the psychological symptoms of anxiety disorder?

Psychological symptoms of anxiety disorder denote the cognitive and emotional disruptions resulting from excessive nervousness, worry, or fear. The psychological symptoms of anxiety disorder are listed below.

• Feeling panic, fear, and uneasiness
• Nightmares
• Repeated thoughts or flashbacks of traumatic experiences
• Uncontrollable, obsessive thoughts

1. Feeling panic, fear, and uneasiness

A constant sense of panic, fear, and uneasiness reflects the heightened emotional state caused by anxiety disorder. The mind becomes fixated on potential dangers, whether real or imagined, leading to overwhelming dread.

Persistent distress interferes with rational thinking, making everyday situations feel threatening. The body’s fight-or-flight response stays active, reinforcing feelings of fear even in safe environments. Uncontrollable worry amplifies uneasiness, preventing relaxation and mental clarity.

Panic attacks sometimes occur suddenly, bringing intense fear and physical discomfort without an immediate cause. Emotional exhaustion follows as the brain struggles to regulate stress responses.

2. Nightmares

Nightmares emerge as a psychological symptom of anxiety disorder due to the brain’s struggle to process fear and worry during sleep. Unresolved tension and emotional turmoil often take shape in unsettling dreams, reinforcing feelings of unease.

Fear, dread, and uncertainty experienced during the day often manifest in vivid, unsettling nightmares. Interrupted sleep lowers the capacity to control emotions, raising overall anxiety levels.

Avoidance of sleep brought on by the fear of recurrent nightmares causes increasing exhaustion and emotional instability. The cycle of anxiety and disturbed dreams keeps on, so recuperation and relaxation become harder.

Compared to individuals without GAD, participants with GAD reported noticeably more bad dreams. Particularly, at baseline, terrible nightmares occurred at least once a week for 21.6% of people with GAD, compared to 6.4% of people without GAD, according to a 2014 paper by Nadorff et al., titled “Bad Dream Frequency in Older Adults with Generalized Anxiety Disorder: Prevalence, Correlates, and Effect of Cognitive Behavioral Treatment for Anxiety.”

3. Repeated thoughts or flashbacks of traumatic experiences

Intrusive thoughts and flashbacks bring past trauma into the present, making emotional recovery more challenging. The mind replays events involuntarily, triggering the same fear and helplessness felt during the original experience.

Such mental intrusions create a sense of being trapped in the past, preventing emotional healing. Heightened anxiety follows, as the brain struggles to distinguish between memory and reality. The experience feels urgent and overwhelming because flashbacks frequently include vivid sensory elements.

Fear of encountering reminders of the trauma causes avoidance behaviors, isolating individuals from certain environments or situations.

4. Uncontrollable, obsessive thoughts

Obsessive thoughts emerge without warning, creating an involuntary cycle of worry and fear that becomes difficult to break. The mind fixates on specific concerns, replaying them repeatedly, even when no real danger exists.

Anxiety strengthens unwanted ideas, making concerns seem pressing and inescapable. A continuous loop of overwhelming thoughts affects daily life, making concentration and decision-making more difficult. The inability to control such thoughts increases frustration, leading to heightened emotional strain.

Over time, avoidance behaviors develop as individuals attempt to escape situations triggering obsessive thinking. Sleep disturbances and physical symptoms, such as tension or fatigue, often accompany relentless mental activity.

What are the behavioral symptoms of anxiety disorder?

Behavioral symptoms of anxiety disorder refer to observable actions and habits developing as a response to excessive fear and worry. The behavioral symptoms of anxiety disorder are listed below.

• Inability to be still and calm
• Ritualistic behaviors, such as washing hands repeatedly
• Trouble sleeping

1. Inability to be still and calm

Struggling to remain still and calm often signals heightened nervous energy linked to anxiety. The body stays on high alert, creating difficulty in achieving relaxation, even in peaceful environments.

Fidgeting, pacing, or constant movement becomes a way to release built-up tension. An overactive mind fuels restlessness, preventing focus on tasks or conversations. Sitting quietly feels uncomfortable, as unease pushes the urge to stay in motion.

The inability to relax impedes daily activities, rendering work, social relationships, and pleasure more difficult. Managing anxiety through mindfulness, breathing exercises, or physical activity helps restore a sense of calm.

2. Ritualistic behaviors, such as washing hands repeatedly

Repeated handwashing and similar ritualistic behaviors stem from an overwhelming need to reduce anxiety. Compulsion drives individuals to perform specific actions, often as a way to prevent perceived harm or contamination.

The mind fixates on intrusive thoughts, creating an urge to engage in repetitive cleaning despite logical awareness of the behavior being excessive. A person’s reliance on routines and habits is reinforced by the fact that each act brings temporary relief.

Anxiety quickly returns, triggering the need to repeat the action to regain control. Such time-consuming and life-interfering behaviors lower social engagement and productivity.

3. Trouble sleeping

Falling asleep becomes difficult as anxious thoughts persist, preventing relaxation. Even when sleep begins, staying asleep remains a challenge due to heightened alertness and frequent awakenings. Racing thoughts disrupt the natural sleep cycle, leading to exhaustion and irritability the next day.

A consistent schedule becomes hard to maintain as bedtime routines are often interrupted by tension and unease. Irregular sleep patterns worsen anxiety symptoms, creating a cycle of fatigue and increased stress. Sleep deprivation amplifies emotional instability, causing daily responsibilities to feel overwhelming.

According to a paper from Sarah L. Chellappa and Daniel Aeschbach published in 2022, titled “Sleep and anxiety: From mechanisms to interventions,” around 50% of people with anxiety experience sleep disturbances, especially insomnia. Not only does anxiety lead to sleeping problems, but insufficient sleep worsens anxiety.

When do anxiety disorder symptoms begin?

Anxiety disorder symptoms begin in childhood or adolescence and persist throughout adulthood. Compared to boys and men, girls and women are more prone to suffer from an anxiety disorder, according to a 2023 article from the World Health Organization, titled “Anxiety disorders.”

Regardless of prior experiences, people of all ages and backgrounds could possibly be affected by anxiety disorders, with the potential to manifest at any point in life. Certain individuals develop symptoms gradually as a result of ongoing stress, while others experience a sudden onset triggered by a traumatic event.

Even in adulthood, anxiety surfaces due to major life changes, health concerns, or prolonged pressure.

How is anxiety disorder diagnosed?

Anxiety disorder is diagnosed with a careful examination of one’s symptoms, medical background, and general mental health. When trying to rule out underlying medical issues like thyroid problems or heart issues—conditions possibly contributing to anxiety—a physical exam is helpful.

Healthcare providers evaluate personal and familial history to discern genetic or environmental factors. For the purpose of assessing the extent and duration of symptoms, mental health professionals use standardized questionnaires and carry out interviews.

The impact of anxiety on day-to-day functioning is better understood by observing behavior and emotional reactions. Doctors search for avoidance behaviors, excessive fear, or ongoing worry interfering with day-to-day functioning.

Symptoms must be present for an extended period and cause significant distress before an official diagnosis is made. The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5) serves as a reference for identifying specific anxiety disorders.

What are the causes of anxiety disorder?

Causes of anxiety disorder refer to a number of factors influencing the onset of the condition. The causes of anxiety disorder are listed below.

• Chemical imbalance
• Heredity
• Environmental factors

1. Chemical imbalance

Anxiety disorders arise as a result of imbalances in brain chemistry interfering with stress reactions and mood management. Neurotransmitters vital to preserving emotional stability include serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine.

Dysregulation in neurotransmitter systems, including a drop in calming signals (like GABA) and a rise in stimulating signals (like glutamate)—lead to feeling overly alert or anxious, according to a 2009 paper by Martin et al., titled “The Neurobiology of Anxiety Disorders: Brain Imaging, Genetics, and Psychoneuroendocrinology.”

Additionally, monoamine systems, particularly serotonin, norepinephrine, and dopamine, are involved in anxiety disorders. When proper function or binding to targets by such brain chemicals is disrupted, mood swings increase, and sensitivity to stress becomes more pronounced.

2. Heredity

Genetics significantly influence the probability of acquiring an anxiety condition. Individuals with close relatives who experience anxiety-related conditions face a higher risk of experiencing similar struggles.

Hereditary features affect the brain’s management of stress and fear responses, hence influencing emotional reactions to adversity. Variations in specific genes affect neurotransmitter function, altering mood stability and increasing vulnerability to excessive worry.

GAD exhibits modest heredity, with research indicating a heritability estimate of approximately 31.6%. Children of individuals with GAD face a markedly elevated chance of getting GAD, with odds ratios between 2.1 and 2.6, as noted in a 2017 article by Gottschalk et al., titled “Genetics of generalized anxiety disorder and related traits.”

Stress or adversity experienced in childhood was the sole trigger for an enhanced anxiety sensitivity in individuals with specific genotypes. Among genetically susceptible populations, everyday stressors and natural calamities (like hurricanes) cause symptoms of GAD.

3. Environmental factors

A person’s environment and past experiences are major factors in the onset of anxiety disorders. Prolonged fear and elevated stress reactions are more likely to occur in people who have experienced trauma, such as abuse, neglect, or assault. Chronic anxiety and emotional strain are exacerbated by high-pressure situations, such as demanding jobs or unstable homes.

Further aggravating emotions of discomfort and nervousness are financial difficulties, significant life changes, or unpredictable social situations. A 2017 study from Aktar et al., titled “Environmental transmission of generalized anxiety disorder from parents to children: worries, experiential avoidance, and intolerance of uncertainty” concluded that GAD is passed on from parents to children through both genetics and environmental factors.

Such environmental contributors include parental avoidance behaviors, verbal expressions of worry, and modeling anxiety behaviors. Children adopt cognitive patterns associated with GAD from parents, such as learning to view the world as dangerous, avoiding uncertainty, and using worry as preparation for potential challenges.

Can anxiety disorder be prevented?

No, anxiety disorder cannot be prevented. No known way exists to completely eliminate the possibility of developing the condition. Uncertainty surrounds prevention efforts for anxiety disorders due to the complex interplay between genetics, brain chemistry, and life events.

No guaranteed way completely eliminates the possibility of experiencing anxiety-related issues. Symptoms still have the possibility to appear even when risk factors remain low. Controlling every possible cause of anxiety disorders is difficult due to their intricacy.

While certain individuals remain unaffected despite high-stress environments, others develop symptoms without clear triggers. The unpredictable nature of anxiety disorders highlights the challenges in preventing them entirely.

How to prevent anxiety disorder?

To prevent anxiety disorder, developing strong coping strategies, managing stress effectively, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle strengthen emotional resilience, ultimately reducing the risk of anxiety disorder.

Seeking support during challenging times lessens the impact of anxiety-related symptoms. Implementing relaxation techniques, sustaining a healthy schedule, and practicing self-care help prevent anxiety disorder from developing or worsening.

Avoiding excessive caffeine, prioritizing sleep, and staying active through physical activity support mental stability. A strong support system minimizes triggers and promotes a sense of security.

Who is at risk for anxiety disorder?

Individuals at risk for anxiety disorder include children who experienced trauma or abuse, women, those with a family history of anxiety, and individuals exposed to ongoing stress. Children facing traumatic experiences or mistreatment often develop heightened anxiety due to persistent fear and uncertainty.

Anxiety disorders are almost twice as common in women as in men. Sex-based differences in anxiety begin at puberty, with girls experiencing higher anxiety rates than boys due to a combination of hormonal changes and psychological stressors, according to a 2017 review by Liisa Hantsoo and C. Neill Epperson, titled “Anxiety Disorders Among Women: A Female Lifespan Approach.”

A strong family background of anxiety increases susceptibility, as genetic factors contribute to emotional regulation difficulties. Exposure to prolonged stress from work, relationships, or financial hardships intensifies anxious feelings over time.

What are the available treatments for anxiety disorder?

Available treatments for anxiety disorder are a combination of psychotherapy and medications. The treatments available for anxiety disorder are listed below.

• Anti-anxiety medications
• Antidepressants
• Beta-blockers
• Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)
• Exposure therapy

1. Anti-anxiety medications

Anti-anxiety medications, or anxiolytics, are medications formulated to reduce the symptoms of anxiety, such as extreme fear or worry and panic attacks. The most commonly prescribed options include benzodiazepines for short-term relief.

Doctors prescribe such medications when anxiety interferes with daily life, causing persistent distress or physical symptoms. Anxiolytic medications such as benzodiazepines are effective, yet come with certain risks, in the treatment of anxiety disorders.

For instance, a 2020 paper by Garakani et al., titled “Pharmacotherapy of Anxiety Disorders: Current and Emerging Treatment Options” mentioned benzodiazepines are helpful for short-term use in treating anxiety but have risks of dependence, cognitive impairment, and sedation, and are no longer considered first-line monotherapy.

How long it takes for anti-anxiety medications to work depends on the type of medication. For example, benzodiazepines work rapidly within 30 minutes to an hour. People taking buspirone, another anti-anxiety medication, start noticing effects within one to two weeks, with full benefits appearing after three to four weeks.

2. Antidepressants

Antidepressants regulate brain chemistry, stabilizing mood and reducing symptoms of depression and anxiety. Medications in this category influence neurotransmitters such as serotonin, norepinephrine, and dopamine, playing a role in emotional balance. Often prescribed for anxiety disorders, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs) enhance neurotransmitter availability, fostering a sense of calm.

Effectiveness varies among individuals, with some experiencing significant improvement while others require adjustments in dosage or medication type. SSRIs and SNRIs are primary therapeutic options for GAD, PD, and SAD. Escitalopram and duloxetine exhibited the most substantial effect sizes, as noted in a 2020 paper by Garakani et al., titled “Pharmacotherapy of Anxiety Disorders: Current and Emerging Treatment Options.”

Unlike benzodiazepines, antidepressants do not offer instant relief because time is needed for the medication to accumulate in the system. Initial effects become noticeable within two to four weeks, while full therapeutic benefits generally take six to eight weeks. Consistency in taking medication as prescribed enhances effectiveness, preventing fluctuations in symptoms.

3. Beta-blockers

Beta-blockers are medications used to alleviate the effects of adrenaline, assisting in the control of physical symptoms related to anxiety. Often prescribed for high blood pressure and heart conditions, beta-blockers help manage anxiety-related issues such as rapid heartbeat, trembling, and sweating.

Beta-blockers do not target the emotional aspects of anxiety but focus on minimizing the body’s physical response to stress. Propranolol, one of the most commonly used beta-blockers for anxiety, is often taken before anxiety-inducing situations like public speaking or performances.

The medications work by blocking adrenaline’s effect on the heart and blood vessels, preventing sudden spikes in heart rate and blood pressure.

The efficacy of beta-blockers in treating anxiety disorders is not well supported by research, according to a 2025 review article by Archer et al., titled “Beta-blockers for the treatment of anxiety disorders: A systematic review and meta-analysis.”

Beta-blockers mitigate physical symptoms (e.g., palpitations) but do not tackle the fundamental psychological components of anxiety. Although beta-blockers are extensively utilized in practice, especially in the United Kingdom (UK) and among young adults, they are not endorsed by prominent clinical guidelines (National Institute for Healthcare and Excellence, Anxiety and Depression Association of America, World Health Organization).

Propranolol and similar medications typically start working within an hour, offering quick relief from physical discomfort. Though not a cure for anxiety, beta-blockers provide short-term symptom management, helping individuals feel more in control during stressful moments.

4. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)

Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is a form of talk therapy aimed at helping people with anxiety recognize and alter unhelpful ways of thinking. Individuals are able to identify harmful attitudes, learn more effective coping skills, and alter behaviors amplifying anxious sensations through the use of CBT.

Through gradually confronting fears in a controlled setting, cognitive behavioral therapy reduces avoidance behaviors and builds resilience. A therapist works closely with the patient to help change problematic thought patterns because thinking influences emotions and behaviors.

With solid proof of efficacy in a range of presentations, CBT continues to be the gold standard for treating anxiety disorders, according to a 2021 study by Curtiss et al., titled “Cognitive-Behavioral Treatments for Anxiety andStress-Related Disorders.”

People with anxiety disorder often need between six and 20 sessions to achieve improvements. The exact number of sessions depends on the severity of the condition and presenting symptoms.

5. Exposure therapy

Exposure therapy is a psychiatric intervention intended to help people face fears in a controlled environment while progressively reducing anxiety reactions. The technique lets people develop resilience and lower avoidance by means of controlled interactions with anxiety-inducing events, ideas, or things.

Therapists guide patients through repeated exposure, either in real life or through visualization, encouraging a new perspective on fearful experiences. The link between anxiety and particular triggers becomes weaker when the brain gradually learns how feared circumstances are not as dangerous as initially believed.

Within the field of CBT, exposure therapy (ET) is considered the gold standard for the treatment of anxiety disorders. Regardless, just 37% of treatment providers consistently administer ET, and as many as 76% of young people with anxiety never get it, according to a 2024 report by Racz et al., titled “Determinants of Exposure Therapy Implementation in Clinical Practice for the Treatment of Anxiety, OCD, and PTSD: A Systematic Review.”

Noticeable improvement typically occurs after eight to 15 sessions, though treatment length varies based on symptom severity. Sessions generally last between 45 and 90 minutes, scheduled weekly or biweekly to maintain steady progress.

How to help someone with anxiety disorder?

To help someone with anxiety disorder, first understand how anxiety interferes with daily living. Promoting honest communication creates a safe environment where one gets to express worries free from criticism. Patience lets people relate events at their own pace.

Efforts to help someone with anxiety disorder additionally involve suggesting professional help for efficient management of the condition involving medical or therapeutic treatment. Reducing a sense of loneliness mostly depends on emotional assistance. Helping with stress management strategies like deep breathing or relaxation exercises builds control.

Encouragement of healthy habits including consistent physical exercise and adequate sleep helps general mental wellness. Regular encouragement helps one develop confidence, thereby enabling daily tasks to seem more doable.

What is the difference between anxiety disorder and depression?

The difference between anxiety disorder and depression lies in the characteristics of their respective symptoms and emotional impacts. The differences between anxiety disorder and depression are presented in the table below.

While anxiety and depression share certain overlapping features, the two conditions stem from different emotional patterns and cognitive processes. Accurate diagnosis and successful treatment depend on an understanding of such distinctions.

What is the difference between anxiety disorder and panic disorder?

The difference between anxiety disorder and panic disorder resides in the type of distress experienced and the way symptoms manifest. The differences between anxiety disorder and panic disorder are listed in the table below.

While anxiety disorder refers to a broader category of conditions involving chronic worry, panic disorder is a distinct condition defined by sudden, intense episodes of fear. Understanding the differences guarantees each condition is handled using the best possible methods.

What is the difference between anxiety disorder and stress?

The difference between anxiety disorder and stress is found in influence on daily life, severity, and duration of each condition. The differences between anxiety disorder and stress are indicated in the table below.

Recognizing the difference between anxiety disorder and stress helps in determining the appropriate approach to managing each condition. While stress is a normal part of life, persistent anxiety requires professional intervention to prevent further complications.