Anxiety attacks are a debilitating condition that affects over 6 million people in the United States. They cause extreme feelings of fear and dread and often have severe physical symptoms that can completely incapacitate anyone suffering from them. The causes of this serious medical condition are not exactly known, but there are several risk factors.

There are many factors that may cause someone to begin experiencing extreme anxiety. Heredity and family history may play a role. People with anxiety disorders will often have family members who have anxiety issues as well. An abusive or neglectful childhood history can also help to create problems with anxiety and coping as children grow up. People who suffer from mental illness often have anxiety problems associated with their illness and the difficulties it may add to their lives. This can also be true for people suffering from long term medical illnesses, where thoughts and fears about their illness can create worry.

Traumatic events can also help create anxiety problems, which is a big concern for returning soldiers. In fact, 7.7 million Americans suffer from Posttraumatic Stress Disorder. These problems don’t just affect military personnel however; anyone who experiences a traumatic event can develop anxiety symptoms. It is often a way for the brain to attempt to cope.

Continual stress is a major reason why people can develop anxiety attacks. Long term stress causes the brain to release cortisol and corticotrophin hormones into the bloodstream. These hormones keep the body’s stress responses going and if the stress remains in the person’s life then their ability to cope properly can diminish. Anything stressful can affect the way the brain copes, and different people have unique coping methods.

Stress that can lead to anxiety can be caused by financial and workplace difficulties, martial trouble, problems at school or with relationships, a death in the family or any major life changes. Substance abuse is another factor that may lead to developing anxiety related problems as drugs can alter the brain’s function and create emotional changes.

Filed under: Causes of Panic/Anxiety Attacks

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