Anxiety unveiled: Symptoms, causes, and effective management

Anxiety is a natural emotional response that serves a vital purpose in alerting us to potential threats. However, when it becomes a persistent and overwhelming part of daily life, it can significantly impact one's mental and physical health. In his latest online article, Dr Jason Tan aims to help you understand anxiety, recognise its symptoms, and explore effective management strategies.

What is anxiety?

Anxiety, in essence, is an emotional state characterised by feelings of tension, worried thoughts, and physical changes like increased blood pressure. While occasional anxiety is a normal part of life, chronic anxiety can indicate an anxiety disorder. Generalised Anxiety Disorder (GAD), for instance, involves excessive, uncontrollable worry about everyday matters. Panic disorder, on the other hand, features sudden episodes of intense fear, often without a clear trigger.

Recognising the symptoms

Anxiety manifests in both psychological and physical ways. Common psychological symptoms include persistent worry, difficulty concentrating, irritability, and a pervasive sense of impending doom. Physical symptoms often include: 

• Palpitations: Feeling like your heart is racing or pounding. 

• Shortness of breath: Feeling like you can’t catch your breath, even when at rest.

• Muscle tension: Frequent muscle aches and pains without physical exertion.

• Headaches: Recurrent headaches that aren’t linked to other conditions.

• Digestive issues: Experiencing nausea, diarrhoea, or stomach cramps.

These symptoms can vary in severity, affecting individuals differently based on their unique situations and stressors.

Causes of anxiety

Understanding the root causes of anxiety can help in managing it more effectively. Anxiety often results from a complex interplay of genetic, environmental, and psychological factors. Some individuals may have a hereditary predisposition, making them more susceptible to anxiety disorders. Traumatic events, chronic stress, and significant life changes can also trigger or exacerbate anxiety. Additionally, medical conditions like thyroid disorders and certain medications can contribute to anxiety symptoms.

Effective management strategies

Managing anxiety involves a combination of lifestyle adjustments, therapeutic interventions, and sometimes medication.

Lifestyle adjustments: Incorporating regular physical activity, such as walking, yoga, or swimming, can help alleviate anxiety. Maintaining a balanced diet and ensuring adequate sleep are also crucial. Techniques like mindfulness meditation, progressive muscle relaxation, and deep breathing exercises can provide immediate relief from anxiety symptoms.

Therapeutic interventions: Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) is a widely used method that helps individuals identify and challenge distorted thought patterns. Through CBT, patients learn to develop healthier thinking habits and coping mechanisms. Other therapeutic approaches, like exposure therapy for phobias or trauma-focused therapy, can also be beneficial.

Medication: In cases where anxiety significantly impairs daily functioning, medication may be prescribed. Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs), a class of antidepressants, are frequently prescribed to manage anxiety disorders. These medications help balance brain chemicals that influence mood and stress responses.

Seeking professional help

If anxiety is affecting your quality of life, seeking professional help is a vital step. Consulting with your GP (General Practitioner) can provide clarity and direction. They can conduct assessments, offer a diagnosis, and discuss treatment options tailored to your needs. Remember, anxiety is a manageable condition, and with the right support and strategies, it is possible to regain control and improve your well-being.

Dr Jason Tan is an esteemed consultant psychiatrist. You can schedule an appointment with Dr Tan on his Top Doctors profile.