Other names for Anxiety Disorders

Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD)
Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)
Panic disorder
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
Social anxiety disorder (social phobia)
Specific phobias

Synopsis of Anxiety Disorders

Anxiety disorders are a group of mental health conditions characterized by excessive fear, worry, or nervousness that is difficult to control and interferes with daily life. These disorders involve both emotional and physical symptoms such as persistent worry, restlessness, fatigue, difficulty concentrating, muscle tension, and sleep disturbances.

Anxiety becomes classified as a disorder when it is chronic, disproportionate to actual threats, and disruptive to daily functioning. Anxiety disorders are among the most common psychiatric conditions, affecting people of all ages, and often coexist with other mental health conditions like depression, substance abuse, or eating disorders.

Different types of anxiety disorders involve distinct triggers and symptoms but often overlap in their underlying causes and physiological responses.

Types:

• Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD): Chronic worry about everyday situations (work, health, relationships) for at least six months.

• Panic disorder: Recurrent, unexpected panic attacks (sudden episodes of intense fear with physical symptoms like palpitations, shortness of breath).

• Social anxiety disorder (social phobia): Intense fear of social situations or judgment by others, leading to avoidance.

• Specific phobias: Excessive fear of a specific object or situation (e.g., flying, heights, spiders).

• Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD): Repetitive intrusive thoughts (obsessions) and behaviors (compulsions) performed to reduce anxiety.

• Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD): Anxiety symptoms triggered by a past traumatic event (often classified separately but related).

Common Causes (Risk Factors):

• Genetic predisposition: Family history of anxiety or mental health disorders.

• Brain chemistry: Imbalances in neurotransmitters like serotonin, GABA, and norepinephrine.

• Personality traits: Perfectionism, sensitivity to stress, low self-esteem.

• Chronic stress or trauma: Abuse, neglect, or significant life changes.

• Medical conditions: Thyroid dysfunction, heart arrhythmias, chronic pain.

• Substance use or withdrawal: Caffeine, alcohol, nicotine, or drugs can exacerbate symptoms.

• Sleep deprivation: Impairs emotional regulation and increases anxiety sensitivity.

More Severe Causes (Complications):

• Depression: Common co-occurrence with anxiety disorders.

• Substance abuse: Individuals may self-medicate with alcohol or drugs to relieve anxiety.

• Cardiovascular disease: Chronic stress from anxiety increases heart disease risk.

• Digestive issues: Includes irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), ulcers, and chronic indigestion.

• Suicidal thoughts or behaviors: Especially in severe cases with coexisting depression.

• Impaired social or occupational functioning: Social withdrawal, decreased performance, or job loss.

When to See a Doctor or Mental Health Specialist:

• Persistent, excessive worry or fear that interferes with daily life

• Recurrent panic attacks or avoidance behaviors

• Sleep disturbances, fatigue, or irritability linked to anxiety

• Substance use as a coping mechanism

• Co-occurring depression or suicidal thoughts

• Physical symptoms (heart palpitations, dizziness, chest tightness) without a medical cause

Natural remedies for Anxiety Disorders

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): Structured therapy that helps identify and change negative thought patterns and behaviors associated with anxiety. Considered the gold standard for anxiety disorders.

Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR): Combines meditation, body awareness, and yoga to reduce anxiety and improve emotional regulation. Practice regularly.

Regular Exercise (Aerobic, Yoga, Tai Chi): Reduces cortisol, boosts mood-enhancing neurotransmitters, and supports resilience to stress. Aim for 30 minutes, most days of the week.

Omega-3 Fatty Acids (DHA, EPA): Support brain health, reduce inflammation, and improve mood stability. Include fatty fish, flaxseed, or fish oil supplements.

Magnesium Supplementation: Calms the nervous system, reduces muscle tension, and supports neurotransmitter function. Consider magnesium glycinate or citrate.

Adaptogenic Herbs (Ashwagandha, Rhodiola): Balance stress hormones and improve emotional resilience. Shown to reduce anxiety symptoms.

L-Theanine (from Green Tea): Promotes relaxation without drowsiness, reduces anxiety and stress. Available in tea or supplement form.

GABA Supplements: Supports inhibitory neurotransmitter activity, promoting calmness and reducing excitability. Use under professional guidance.

Sleep Hygiene Practices: Establishing a consistent sleep routine supports emotional regulation and reduces anxiety. Limit screen time before bed and create a calming environment.

Reduce Stimulants (Caffeine, Alcohol, Nicotine): These substances can exacerbate anxiety and disrupt sleep. Limit or eliminate as needed.

Ingredients

These raw ingredients are often used in alternative medicine to treat Anxiety Disorders

5-Hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP)
7,8-Dihydroxyflavone
Aconite
Albizia
amino acids
apigenin
ashwagandha
Bacopa
Bacopin
bacoside
Baikal Skullcap
beta caryophyllene
Bifidobacterium adolescentis
Bifidobacterium infantis
Bifidobacterium longum
brahmi
cannabidiol
Cannabis sativa oil
Capitate Valerian
catnip
Centella asiatica
chamomile
Clary sage
cocoa
Convolvulus pluricaulis
Convolvulus prostratus
cowslip
curcumin
Cymbopogon martini
essential oil blend
gastrodin
Gelsemium
ginkgo biloba
Ginkgoside
ginseng
gotu kola
green tea
Griffonia simplicifolia
hemp
hemp oil
herbal blend (proprietary)
hericium mushroom
Honokiol
hyperforin
Hypericum
inositol
jujubosides
kava
kavalactones
Kefir
L-glycine
L-taurine
L-theanine
L-tryptophan
lactium casein decapeptide
Lactobacillus
Lactobacillus casei
Lactobacillus paracasei
Lactobacillus rhamnosus
Lactococcus rhamnosus
Large-leaved linden
Lavandin
lavender
lemon balm
linalool
linden
lion's mane
lithium orotate
magnesium
magnolia
magnolol
Matcha
Melatonin
Mesembrine
Mimulus
Monoterpenes
Motherwort
Muira puama
Mulungu
N-acetyl-cysteine (NAC)
omega-3 fatty acids
passionflower
Passionfruit
phosphatidylserine
phytocannabinoids
Polygala
polygala root
prebiotic blend (proprietary)
pregnenolone
probiotics
Pulsatilla
Purple Monkeyflower
pyridoxal-5-phosphate (P-5-P)
reishi mushroom
relora® (proprietary)
Rhodiola
rosavins
rosmarinic acid
Safranal
SAMe (S-adenosyl-L-methionine disulfate p-toluensulfate)
Sandalwood
sceletium
Scleranthus annus
Shankhpushpi
shen-chu
skullcap
Spikenard
St. John's Wort
star of Bethlehem
Tea
Terpenoids
Tetrahydropalmatine
Trichilia catigua
Valerenic acid
Valerian root
velvet bean
Vervain
vitamin B
vitamin B12
vitamin B6
Vitexin
Waterhyssop
Wogonin
Yohimbine
Zinc