Anxiety

Anxiety is a normal human emotion — a natural response to stress or perceived danger. An anxiety disorder is different: persistent, excessive worry that's difficult to control and interferes with daily functioning, even when there's no immediate threat.

Common Types

Generalized anxiety disorder involves excessive worry about a range of everyday things; social anxiety centers on fear of judgment in social situations; and panic attacks cause sudden, intense episodes of fear with physical symptoms. Our overview of understanding anxiety and depression covers how these conditions relate and when to seek help more broadly.

Symptoms

Beyond excessive worry, anxiety often causes physical symptoms — a racing heart, muscle tension, restlessness, difficulty concentrating, and sleep problems. Our symptoms of anxiety guide covers this in depth.

What Causes It

Anxiety disorders develop from a combination of genetics, brain chemistry, personality, and life experiences — there's rarely a single identifiable cause, and having one doesn't reflect a personal failing.

Diagnosis and Risk Factors

A doctor or mental health professional diagnoses an anxiety disorder through a clinical evaluation — assessing symptom pattern, duration, and how much it interferes with daily life — since there's no single blood test or scan that identifies it. Certain factors raise the likelihood of developing an anxiety disorder, including a family history of anxiety or other mental health conditions, a naturally shy or cautious temperament, ongoing stressful or traumatic life experiences, and substance use — though having one or more of these doesn't mean anxiety is inevitable.

Treatment

Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is one of the most effective treatments, teaching practical skills to manage anxious thoughts and behaviors. Medication (commonly certain antidepressants) is also effective, often used alongside therapy. Lifestyle factors — regular exercise, adequate sleep, and reduced caffeine — provide meaningful additional support.