Anxiety why do i have it

It is very helpful to remind ourselves that some anxiety is normal. Unfortunately, when a patient feels anxious, it is too common to label and diagnose it as a disorder. Thanks again. What then? Who knew? Everyone worries or gets scared sometimes. But if you feel extremely worried or afraid much of the time, or if you repeatedly feel panicky, you may have an anxiety disorder. Anxiety disorders are among the most common mental illnesses, affecting roughly 40 million American adults each year.

This Special Health Report, Anxiety and Stress Disorders , discusses the latest and most effective treatment approaches, including cognitive behavioral therapies, psychotherapy, and medications. A special section delves into alternative treatments for anxiety, such as relaxation techniques, mindfulness meditation, and biofeedback. Thanks for visiting. Don't miss your FREE gift. Sign up to get tips for living a healthy lifestyle, with ways to fight inflammation and improve cognitive health , plus the latest advances in preventative medicine, diet and exercise , pain relief, blood pressure and cholesterol management, and more.

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Message Maximum of characters. Send feedback. Substance use Some people who experience anxiety may use alcohol or other drugs to help them manage their condition. In some cases, this may lead to people developing a substance use problem along with their anxiety condition.

Alcohol and substance use can aggravate anxiety conditions particularly as the effects of the substance wear off. It's important to check for and get assistance for any substance use conditions at the same time. It's important to remember that you can't always identify the cause of anxiety or change difficult circumstances.

The most important thing is to recognise the signs and symptoms and seek advice and support. Other pages in This Section What is mental health? Anxiety and depression checklist K10 Depression Anxiety What causes anxiety? Signs and symptoms Types of anxiety Treatments for anxiety Who can assist Other sources of support Stigma relating to anxiety Suicide prevention Supporting someone Pregnancy and early parenthood Grief and loss Unemployment and mental health Drugs, alcohol and mental health.

If you're diagnosed with GAD, there is treatment available. Read more information about treating GAD. Page last reviewed: 19 July Next review due: 19 July Home Mental health Feelings, symptoms and behaviours Feelings and symptoms Back to Feelings and symptoms.