Anxiety is the intense feeling of worry, fear, or unease that an individual develops in response to a real or perceived threat. While it is a psychological condition, it can also manifest with physical symptoms. Anxiety is considered a natural defense mechanism that helps individuals stay alert to dangers. However, when the perception of threats becomes excessive, it can negatively affect daily life and develop into a disorder. Anxiety is widespread in society, and its effects vary from person to person.
Psychological Foundations of Anxiety
Anxiety is an emotional response controlled by the brain's limbic system. The amygdala, a part of the limbic system, manages threat perception and regulates fear responses. This mechanism allows the individual to respond quickly to environmental threats. However, when the amygdala is overly sensitive, the individual perceives constant danger even when there is no real threat. Psychological factors, childhood trauma, low self-esteem, and stressful life events also play a role in the development of anxiety.
Physical Symptoms of Anxiety
The physical symptoms of anxiety affect not only the individual’s mental but also their physical health, leading to significant discomfort in daily life. Heart palpitations are often felt as a heavy or fast heartbeat in the chest, and this is commonly confused with panic attacks. Intense sweating, particularly in the palms or forehead, can cause feelings of embarrassment in social situations.
Trembling and muscle tension can make the person feel as though they are constantly losing control. Nausea and digestive issues may complicate basic activities, such as eating. The sensation of breathlessness makes the person feel as though they cannot get enough air, further hindering the ability to calm down.
Individuals with anxiety may feel exhausted, restless, and out of control due to these symptoms. For example, shortness of breath and dizziness can lead to panic in social situations. When these symptoms occur frequently, the individual may struggle to complete daily tasks, leading to a loss of self-confidence. Anxiety-related physical discomforts cause the individual to remain on high alert, severely reducing their quality of life.
Types of Anxiety Disorders
Anxiety can be classified into different types, each with its own unique symptoms and effects:
- Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD): Characterized by a constant state of worry and negative thoughts about the future. The individual experiences intense anxiety about daily events, which can lead to physical symptoms like sleep problems and fatigue.
- Panic Disorder: Sudden onset of intense fear, accompanied by physical symptoms like palpitations and shortness of breath. The attacks usually last for a few minutes, but they create a constant fear of recurrence.
- Social Anxiety Disorder: Fear of being judged or embarrassed in social settings. The individual avoids speaking in public or drawing attention to themselves.
- Specific Phobias: Intense fear of a specific object or situation, such as heights, animals, or flying.
These types affect the individual’s quality of life in different ways, and the treatment plan is determined accordingly.
Anxiety and Brain Chemistry
One of the causes of anxiety disorders is the disruption of chemical balance in the brain. Neurotransmitters in the brain allow nerve cells to communicate with each other. Substances like serotonin, dopamine, and GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid) affect mood, calmness, and the ability to cope with stress. Low serotonin levels can make an individual feel restless, unhappy, and constantly uneasy. GABA acts as a “brake” in the brain, calming the nervous system. If GABA levels are insufficient, the person feels stressed and tense. Imbalances in dopamine can negatively affect the ability to experience pleasure and motivation.
These chemical imbalances are typically corrected through a combination of medication and therapy. While medications help balance the brain’s chemicals, therapy teaches the individual how to cope with stress, reducing the effects of anxiety.
Coping Strategies for Anxiety
Psychotherapy, medication, and lifestyle changes are recommended to cope with anxiety.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) focuses on examining thought patterns and how these patterns affect emotions and behaviors. Methods like meditation, regular exercise, and breathing techniques can reduce stress levels and ease anxiety symptoms. However, since each individual responds differently to treatment, it is important to create a personalized plan.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy in Anxiety Treatment
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is widely used and effective in treating anxiety disorders. The therapy focuses on helping the individual recognize their thought patterns and understand how these patterns influence their emotions and behaviors.
In the initial stage, the sources of anxiety are examined. For example, a thought like “If I make a mistake, people will judge me negatively” is addressed. The therapist helps the individual evaluate this thought in detail.
In CBT, the goal is to help the individual develop different perspectives on their thoughts. Anxiety-inducing situations are addressed gradually, and the individual is encouraged to face these situations in a controlled manner. For example, a person who fears speaking in public may begin by practicing speaking to a small group of people.
CBT also involves recording the individual’s daily events and responses. These records help the individual gain clarity about their thought processes and form the foundation for change. During therapy, the individual learns how to reduce anxiety and cope with situations.
