Science of Anxiety: Overcoming Fear and Panic Attacks

In the tapestry of human emotions, anxiety weaves its threads across the spectrum, affecting millions worldwide. Anxiety disorders, however, paint a more intricate picture—a canvas coloured by overwhelming worry, fear, and the struggle to find calm amidst the storm. In this blog post, we embark on a journey to explore the multifaceted world of anxiety disorders, shedding light on their various forms, impact, and the pathways towards managing and thriving in their midst.

As a person with severe anxiety myself I feel I need to tell you all the unfiltered reality of a person with a Anxiety disorder. Every person in the world suffers with anxiety at least a few times in there life, its natural and that’s a fact. Anxiety is the brains response to flight or fright, a defence mechanism that is there to protect our physical body’s from danger. Anxiety plays into part of the responses we have had since we were in our ancestral primitive form, in fact science has proven that the ‘goose pimples’ and ‘hair standing up on arms’ moment was actually part of our Physical anxiety or danger responses back then but obviously at some point the physical and emotional response got separated.

When I talk about Anxiety disorders I’m not talking about the occasional feeling nervous or worried about certain situations in your life, this is completely normal as mentioned before. Anxiety disorders are much more worse, long lasting and can refer to more then one thing you are anxious about. For instance someone without an anxiety disorder might be anxious about attending a job interview and feel the general nerves anyone would, a person with an anxiety disorder for instance would be worrying about -

“what should I wear? will they I get there on time? I cant eat I don’t want to be bloated. will i seem stupid? C*rp where is my paperwork? I cant watch my favourite program.. I must get to sleep.. why cant I sleep? I cant do this. I’m not going to turn up. ** Followed by hours of self doubt and horrible thoughts ** ”

This is the reality with some with a Anxiety disorder, It’s constant racing thoughts that consume your daily existence to the point it prevents you from living ‘normally’. Your constantly living with a battle in your head consumed by that flight response to the point where fear becomes a presence you know way to well. Many people these days are quick to say “I’ve got a Anxiety Disorder” due to the influx of social media playing a massive part in these rise of normalising the horrid experiences people face. Now I’m not saying that there’s not people that use social media platforms with anxiety disorders because Heck, look at me! But it has become way to common for people to use the disorder itself as a scape goat without ever experiencing what its actually like for a person with it.

Anxiety the science.

When it comes to the science of Anxiety It is a complex emotional state that involves a number of factors including genetics, brain chemistry, and environmental factors. One theory suggests that anxiety is caused by a dysregulation of the brain's limbic system, which is responsible for processing emotions. The limbic system includes the amygdala, prefrontal cortex, and hippocampus, and when these structures are not functioning properly, it can lead to an overactive fear response and feelings of anxiety. Other factors that can contribute to anxiety include genetics, personality traits, and environmental influences such as stressful life events or trauma. For example, individuals who have a family history of anxiety disorders may be more likely to develop anxiety themselves. Treatment for anxiety typically involves a combination of medication, psychotherapy, and lifestyle changes such as exercise, stress management, and a healthy diet.

Anxiety disorders generally Co-exist with other Mental health and Neurological disorders, such as -

• Depression

• Bipolar disorder

• Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)

• Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)

• Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)

• Panic disorder

• Eating disorders

• Social anxiety disorder

• Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD)

• Autism Spectrum

  But it can also be brought on by environmental and medical factors such as -

• substance or Alcohol abuse

• sleep disorders (insomnia or other sleep disturbances)

• Medical issues with the brain such as

• Hormonal imbalances: Hormonal imbalances due to conditions such as thyroid disorders and PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome) can cause anxiety.

• Cardiovascular issues: Heart and blood-related conditions such as heart disease, high blood pressure, and other cardiovascular problems may cause anxiety.

• Respiratory disorders: Breathing difficulty due to respiratory disorders such as Asthma, COPD, and other lung conditions can cause anxiety symptoms.

• Chronic pain: Chronic pain from conditions such as arthritis, migraines, or back pain, may lead to depression and anxiety.

• Neurological disorders: Neurological disorders such as Parkinson's disease, epilepsy, and other conditions that impact the brain may lead to anxiety disorders.

• Medication side effects: Certain medications, including birth control pills, steroids, and stimulants, can cause anxiety.

Generally speaking, people with Anxiety disorders brought on by medical / environmental factors can see a healthy recovery from the disorder. When an Anxiety Disorder is due to these factors it doesn’t usually become permanent as long as the person has the right help and therapy. Recovery statistics show that these factors are in the majority Anxiety disorders just ‘disappearing’ never again to re-occur once the right help has been provided. For Anxiety disorders brought on by other Co-existing mental health disorders or neurodivergence it doesn’t just go away, it can be managed but it will always be there and will often re-occur.

The Spectrum of Anxiety Disorders

Anxiety isn't a one-size-fits-all experience; it exists along a spectrum of disorders, each with its own unique characteristics. Lets look at some of the more common Anxiety Disorders and there effects on an individual:

Generalized anxiety disorder -

Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) is a mental health disorder characterized by excessive and uncontrollable worry about various events or activities that may or may not happen in the future. People with GAD often feel tense, restless, and irritable, and may have difficulty concentrating or sleeping. The worry and anxiety associated with GAD are often excessive and disproportionate to the actual event or situation, and may persist for months or even years. GAD can significantly impair a person's ability to function in daily life, and may require treatment with therapy or medication.

Social anxiety -

Social anxiety, also known as social phobia, is a type of anxiety disorder characterized by intense fear, nervousness, and discomfort in social situations. People with social anxiety may experience physical symptoms such as sweating, trembling, blushing, and an increased heart rate when they are in a social situation. They may also fear being judged or rejected by others, and may avoid social situations altogether as a result. Social anxiety can have a significant impact on one's daily life, including relationships, work, and social activities. Treatment for social anxiety may include therapy, medication, or a combination of both.

Panic disorder -
Panic disorder is a type of anxiety disorder characterized by sudden and recurrent panic attacks. Panic attacks involve intense and overwhelming feelings of fear or anxiety that are accompanied by physical symptoms such as sweating, trembling, chest pain, and a rapid heartbeat. Panic attacks can occur unexpectedly or can be triggered by specific situations or events, and can last anywhere from a few minutes to several hours. People with panic disorder often develop a fear of having another panic attack and can go to great lengths to avoid situations that may trigger an attack. Treatment for panic disorder may include medication, therapy, or a combination of both.

Separation Anxiety Disorder -

Separation Anxiety Disorder is a type of anxiety disorder characterized by persistent and excessive fear or anxiety over being separated from a caregiver, family member, or home. This anxiety can lead to significant distress, both for the person experiencing it and for the people they are close to. Separation Anxiety Disorder typically develops in childhood but can also occur in adulthood. In children, symptoms may include crying, tantrums, and physical complaints (such as headaches or stomachaches) when a separation occurs or is anticipated. In adults, symptoms may include persistent worry about the safety of loved ones, difficulty sleeping away from home or being alone, and difficulty leaving home. Treatment for Separation Anxiety Disorder may include therapy, medications, or a combination of both.

Agoraphobia -

Agoraphobia is a type of anxiety disorder characterized by an intense fear or anxiety of being in situations or places from which escape may be difficult or embarrassing, or where help may not be available if a panic attack or other physical symptoms occur. This fear leads to significant distress and can affect a person's ability to function in their daily life. Common situations that people with agoraphobia may fear or avoid include using public transportation, being in crowded places, being in enclosed spaces, and leaving the home alone. The fear of these situations often leads to avoidance behaviours, which can further reinforce the fear and limit the person's ability to engage in activities outside of their home. Treatment for agoraphobia may involve therapies such as cognitive-behavioural therapy or exposure therapy, as well as medication.

Some you may not of known were Anxiety Disorders -

Specific Phobias -

Specific phobia is a type of anxiety disorder characterized by an extreme and persistent fear or anxiety about a specific object, situation, or activity. This fear or anxiety is excessive and unreasonable, and it leads to avoidance or distress in the person's daily life. Specific phobias may include fear of animals, heights, flying, certain types of illness, blood, and needles. Unlike other anxiety disorders, the person with a specific phobia may not experience generalized anxiety or panic attacks in other situations. However, their fear or avoidance of specific objects or situations may significantly affect their personal and social life, leading to avoiding certain activities or places.

The treatment of specific phobias may include cognitive-behavioural therapy, exposure therapy, and systematic desensitization. In some cases, medication may also be used to help manage symptoms of anxiety and fear.

Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)

Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is a type of anxiety disorder characterized by intrusive, unwanted, and often distressing thoughts or obsessions that trigger compulsive or repetitive behaviours. These obsessions can be related to a wide range of themes such as fear of contamination, fear of harming oneself or others, extreme preoccupation with orderliness or symmetry, and religious or morally based obsessions. The compulsive behaviours or rituals are performed in an effort to reduce anxiety and distress caused by the obsessions. Examples of compulsive behaviours may include excessive hand washing, repetitive checking, counting, arranging or aligning objects, repeated praying or chanting, and requesting reassurance from others. OCD typically develops gradually and can significantly impact a person's ability to function in their daily life, leading to social isolation and interfering with work or school performance. The treatment of OCD may involve cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT), exposure therapy, and/or medication. CBT aims to help individuals develop coping strategies to manage their obsessions and compulsions, while exposure therapy involves gradually exposing individuals to the situations that trigger their anxiety and distress. Medications such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) can also help manage symptoms.

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) -

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a mental disorder that can develop in individuals who have experienced or witnessed a traumatic or life-threatening event such as a natural disaster, combat, sexual assault, or domestic violence. People with PTSD often experience intrusive, distressing memories or flashbacks of the traumatic event, which can lead to feelings of anxiety, fear, and avoidance. Symptoms of PTSD include: - Intrusive thoughts or memories of the event - Avoidance of people, places, or activities that remind the person of the event - Hyperarousal, such as difficulty sleeping, feeling irritable, or being easily startled - Negative changes in mood or thinking, including feelings of guilt or shame, difficulty concentrating, and loss of interest in enjoyable activities PTSD can develop immediately after a traumatic event or may take years to surface. The diagnosis of PTSD typically requires that a person experiences symptoms for a month or more. PTSD can be treated with a combination of psychotherapy and medication. Effective psychotherapy approaches include cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT), exposure therapy, and eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR). Medications such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and prazosin can also be helpful in reducing symptoms of anxiety and hyperarousal.

Conclusion:

Anxiety Disorders are a very real long-term existing nightmare for many individuals. Living a day to day life can be a constant battle and when they present themselves some days can be better then others. The most important thing is getting the right help either in therapy or medication to ease the strain and pressure. Many people will relapse with there Anxiety disorder, I for one have many times, just when you think you have control something will trigger it off and your back to square one.

But that being said I believe these are the most important when you feel that symptoms are coming on -

• Recognise the signs

• Seek help

• Practise your coping strategies

• Take a mental health brake

• Talk to someone

In the intricate tapestry of human emotions, anxiety disorders represent a compelling chapter—one filled with challenges, triumphs, and the unwavering spirit of resilience. By unveiling the nuances of anxiety, celebrating the strength of those who navigate its stormy seas, and fostering understanding, we embark on a journey towards a world where anxiety is met with empathy, where individuals find solace in shared experiences, and where the tides of anxiety can be navigated with courage, support, and hope. You are a strong person so please do not ever doubt yourself, you’ve got this.