Anxiety is a normal and common emotion that a lot of individuals experience throughout their lifetime. Anxiety can start at any age, but people tend to feel it more as they grow up.
Unlike other emotions, it isn’t as easy to pinpoint where someone’s anxiety is coming from. If you did something bad, you may feel guilty. If someone caused you harm, you may feel mad or angry. When you obtain a perfect score on a test, you may feel proud.
Unlike other emotions, it isn’t as easy to pinpoint where someone’s anxiety is coming from. There are a variety of different causes when it comes to anxiety. Let’s dive deeper and learn more about what really causes anxiety.
Brain Changes
Changes in the brain can lead to anxiety. The amygdala is a part of the brain that is in charge of managing anxiety and fear. People who show signs of having anxiety or anxiety disorders often have an increased or heightened amygdala. The hippocampus is another area of the brain that’s main role is involved with someone’s emotions, learning, and memories. People who are stressed or anxious also tend to have a greater connection between the amygdala and the hippocampus but a weaker connection between the prefrontal cortex and the hippocampus.
Chemical Imbalance
Chemical imbalances can also lead to anxiety. There are several different chemicals within the body and brain like hormones and neurotransmitters that when imbalanced can lead to an anxiety disorder. The main contributors to chemical imbalances are typically dopamine, serotonin, gamma-aminobutyric (GABA), and norepinephrine.
Environmental Factors
One of the most common and believed causes of anxiety or an anxiety disorder is related to environmental factors. Environmental factors include our home life, careers, and where we interact socially.
Home Environment
Where you live as well as the physical space and the people you interact with within that space can contribute to your anxiety levels. Here are just a few of the many different environmental factors that can impact your home life as well as your anxiety levels:
- Climate
- Crime rate
- Environmental racism
- Mold
- Pollution
- Poverty
Work Environment
People spend a lot of time at work or working, which is why a person’s work environment can be equally as important to their mental health as their home environment is. Here are some of the most common work factors that can contribute to anxiety:
- Bullying
- High effort and low reward
- High-demand role or job
- Lack of control in your role
- Low support in your workplace
- Not feeling appreciated
- Stress
Social Environment
Human connection can be just as important to one’s mental health as food, water, and shelter can be. It’s a basic human need. People need close and intimate relationships in their lives to feel valued, supported, and appreciated. Healthy personal relationships with family, friends, coworkers, and romantic partners can improve one’s overall mental health and wellness.
Genetics
Certain traits and qualities can be passed down from generation to generation within a family. You may have your grandpa’s height, your mom’s eye color, your dad’s hair color, or a personality that is in line with another member of the family. But did you know that mental health disorders and conditions can also be passed down and genetically inherited? Anxiety is another genetic trait that can be passed down or onto you. Individuals who have family members, especially biological parents or siblings, who have dealt with anxiety are more likely to develop anxiety disorder themselves.
Seek Additional Support
There isn’t a one-size-fits-all approach when it comes to anxiety. There are several different types and causes of anxiety. No matter the type or specific cause, a mental health professional is recommended to help you navigate the signs and symptoms you’re struggling with. Reach out today to learn more about how anxiety treatment can help you.
