Causes of Anxiety Disorders

Causes of anxiety disorders

Researchers are not sure what causes anxiety disorders, but they do believe it could be due to a combination of factors (biological, psychological and environmental/sociological).

Scientists believe that the main factors in the development of anxiety disorders are:

Brain chemistry

Some scientists think that imbalances in the neurotransmitters in the brain (especially serotonin and maybe dopamine) may be an underlying cause of anxiety disorders, because when medications are use to balance the neurotransmitters, the symptoms often greatly relieved in many people.

Genetics

Research shows that anxiety disorders are hereditary and studies have shown that if an identical twin has an anxiety disorder, it is significantly likelier that the second twin will also develop an anxiety disorder than if the twins were non-identical (fraternal) twins.

Researchers believe that genetics may play a big role in causing an anxiety disorder to develop, especially if it is combined with certain life experiences, which may make the individual more likely to develop the anxiety disorder.

Life experiences

Researchers believe that there may be a causal relationship between anxiety disorders and long term exposure to abuse, violence and poverty (or even a combination of these factor). Some people may just be more susceptible to anxiety disorders due to their life experiences. More research is being carried out in this area.

Personality

Scientists think that the personality may play a part in the development of an anxiety disorder, as research shows that people with low self esteem and poor coping skills may be more likely to develop an anxiety disorder.

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Last reviewed: 21 August 2007 || Last updated: 3 January 2009

Acetylcholine (glossary)
Anti-depressants (glossary)
Dopamine (glossary)
Essential fatty acids (nutrients)
GABA (amino acids)
Magnesium (minerals)
Meditation (glossary)
Norepinephrine (glossary)
Neurotransmitters (glossary)
Omega 3 fatty acids (glossary)
Omega 6 fatty acids (glossary)
St John's Wort (glossary)
SAMe (glossary)
Serotonin (glossary)
Yoga (glossary)
Zinc (minerals)

NOTE: Mega doses of any type of vitamin, mineral, amino acid or herbal supplement cannot cure illnesses and in fact can be very dangerous and produce toxic side effects and interfere with medicine you are taking. Always ensure you consult your doctor before taking any type of complementary supplements.

Disclaimer: This guide is not intended to be used for diagnostic or prescriptive purposes. For any treatment or diagnosis of illness, please see your doctor.

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