Causes & Risk Factors

• Biological Factors
  • Imbalance in brain chemicals (like serotonin, norepinephrine, GABA)
  • Family history of anxiety or other mental health conditions
• Environmental Factors
  • Ongoing stress at work, school, or home
  • History of trauma or abuse
  • Major life changes (loss, divorce, moving)
• Personality Factors
  • More likely in people who are perfectionists, shy, or have low tolerance for uncertainty
• Medical Conditions
  • Thyroid issues, heart problems, or chronic pain can mimic or worsen anxiety

Common Symptoms

Mental/Emotional Symptoms

• Persistent worry about a wide range of things
• Feeling on edge or constantly nervous
• Trouble concentrating or mind going blank
• Irritability

• Physical Symptoms
  • Muscle tension or aches
  • Fatigue or feeling easily tired
  • Sleep problems (difficulty falling or staying asleep)
  • Upset stomach, nausea, or GI issues
  • Rapid heartbeat or shortness of breath (without medical cause)

 Assessment

Clinical Interview

• Discussion of symptoms, duration, and impact on life
• Rule out medical causes (like hyperthyroidism)

Standardized Screening Tools

• GAD-7 Questionnaire
• Hamilton Anxiety Rating Scale (HAM-A)
• Beck Anxiety Inventory (BAI)

Criteria (DSM-5)

• Excessive worry more days than not for 6+ months
• Difficult to control the worry
• 3 or more associated symptoms (e.g., restlessness, fatigue, irritability, sleep issues)

Treatment

Medication

• SSRIs (e.g., escitalopram, sertraline) – First-line treatment
• SNRIs (e.g., venlafaxine, duloxetine)
• Buspirone – Non-sedating, non-addictive option
• Benzodiazepines (SHORT-TERM ONLY due to risk of dependence, respiratory depression and long term memory issues)
• Beta-blockers (e.g., propranolol) – For physical symptoms like shaking or racing heart

Therapy

• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
  • Helps identify and challenge irrational worries
  • Teaches new coping strategies and thought patterns
• Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR)
  • Focuses on staying in the present moment
• Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)
  • Teaches how to accept thoughts and emotions without judgment

Lifestyle & Self-Care

• Regular exercise (even light walking helps)
• Healthy sleep habits
• Limiting caffeine and alcohol
• Deep breathing, meditation, or progressive muscle relaxation
• Journaling or creative outlets

Long-Term Management Tips

• Track triggers and patterns in a journal
• Use calming apps or relaxation techniques daily
• Build a support network (friends, family, or support groups)
• Follow up with your provider regularly for medication monitoring and therapy check-ins